UEFA Champions League: And Then There Were 16...

The final 16 from the group stages are confirmed. To no surprise, some clubs decided to rest their top stars with qualification in the knockout rounds secured.

With the draw coming on Friday, all eyes will be on the monitor, whether it's television or the computer.

AS Roma

It was a 180-degree turnaround for the Italians in their six matches. A shocking 2-1 home defeat to CFR Cluj-Napoca had many in disbelief. The Giallorossi secured a first-place finish in Group A ahead of Chelsea winning four of their five matches which followed.

Roma's closest journey to winning Europe's elite tournament was in the 1984 final, when they fell to Liverpool in a shoot-out. Achieving the glory this year would fitting with the CL Final set to take place in the Stadio Olympico in Rome.

Bright Star

Francesco Totti has been the heart of this team for many years, and the final seasons of his career are nearing. His dream has always been to lead Roma to a European Cup victory.

Talent is important, but there's no sustitute for experience. The Italian has spent his entire club career with his childhood team, and sealed yesterday's 2-0 victory over Bourdeaux.

Question Mark

Criticizing John Arne Riise for one error may be innappropriate. The blunder was massive however, heading an own-goal against Liverpool during the first leg of last year's semi-final with Chelsea in the Champions League.

It proved costly as the Reds lost 3-2 on aggragate, and the Norwegian's move out of the Premier League followed. Riise has failed to make an impact with his new club, and has struggled to maintain a spot in the starting XI.

X-Factor

He has a knack for the heroics it seems. Mirko Vucinic was the difference in the first knockout phase last year against Real Madrid, and the Montenegro international did it again with two goals against Chelsea on Nov. 4.

Vucinic can be a real handful for the opposition when he's at his best. John Mikel Obi can confirm that. Normally, he plays on the wing in Luciano Spalletti's 4-2-3-1 formation, and his delivery into the box can be dangerous.

Chelsea

Luiz Felipe Scolari couldn't have been pleased with the Blues lackluster effort in their final group game against CFR Cluj. Didier Drogba had to come off the bench to save the blushes and score the game-winner.

Last year's loss in the finals on penalty kicks was hard to swallow for all, some more than others (John Terry). Chelsea have always been consistent but it's time for them to prove they can earn the the CL title.

Bright Star

There are few who can match Didier Drogba's performances when the striker is at his best. Many expected the departure of the 32-year-old this past summer, but he has assured his dedication to the English club.

Europe's top defenders will face the challenge of keeping him off the scoresheets. A healthy Drogba, and there's not telling how far Chelsea can go.

Question Mark

After a hot start, Deco has seemingly cooled off more than he'd prefer. He's gone goal-less in 10 Premier League matches, and it's reflecting in the CL as he's yet to hit the back of the net.

There's no questioning his quality, and he has won the CL in the past with both FC Porto and Barcelona. With the amount of depth Scolari has at his disposal on midfield, Deco may need to produce more than a red card.

X-Factor

Another player who missed a vital penalty-kick in last year's shoot-out, Nicolas Anelka should have the desire to prove himself this time around. He's shown his worthiness of the £15m move with 13 goals in the EPL, and two tallies in the the group stages.

The Frenchman won't see the bench too often if these performances continue, and will be a crucial element in Chelsea's progress.

Panathinaikos

The feel-good story of the tournament's group stages. More dangerous on their home soil, the Greek giants produced some stellar results away from the Athens Olympic Stadium.

Dutch boss Henk Ten Cate was responsible for Barca's decent attacking game when they won the Champions League in 2006. He has taken the same approach with Panathinaikos and they have made him look brilliant.

Bright Star

Giorgos Karagounis was a key member of the Greek side that shocked the world at Euro 2004. His role is much like Totti's in Roma. After a four-year interim with Inter Milan and Benfica, he returned to Greece.

Clever runs with ball, fine distribution among teammates, free-kick expertise, and the ability to grind it out for the full 90 minutes are just some of the gifts he holds.

Question Mark

Goalkeeper Mario Galinovic has produced three consecutive clean sheets and was undoubtedly the difference in the 1-0 win against Inter in Italy. Croatia's third-choice keeper at Euro 2008 is turning heads with these displays.

The Prasinoi have the luxury of finishing first in Group B, but it'll be intriguing to watch the rest of their cinderella story.

X-Factor

Gilberto Silva made the move to Athens after losing his first team place in Arsenal to Mathieu Flamini last season. His goal is to provide balance in front of the defense, and the crafty Brazilian has done that.

A talented, unagitated, defensive midfielder who can keep his opponents at bay (how many Brazilians fit that description?), Silva will have his hands full as the opposition won't be getting any easier.

Internazionale

Time after time we have witnessed Inter fail to establish themselves as a European giant. It's been 36 years since they have reached the final of the Champions League. You never quite know what Jose Mourinho has up his sleeve and the controversy may follow.

Serie A has been theirs for the taking since the match fixing scandals. Mourinho is determined to achieve the splendor once again, and help end Inter's disastrous form in the Champions League.

Bright Star

It's never certain what you're going to get out of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. In a similar situation in Chelsea, Mourinho brought out the best in Didier Drogba. He'll have to duplicate that accomplishment with Ibrahimovic if the Nerazzuri are to stand a chance.

The Swedish striker holds all of the elements necessary in being one of the game's top sharpshooters. His nine goals in all competitions this year indicate that he may be prepared to take the next step.

Question Mark

Being able to play as a striker or winger, Ricardo Quaresma joined Inter this past summer for €18.6m. The 25-year-old possess great speed and dribbling abilities, being often compared to Portuguese teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

His talent has been difficult to catch in Italy, as he still hasn't earned the privilege of starting every match without question. An unsuccessful previous campaign with Barcelona in 2003 may see the same in the Italian League.

X-Factor

Sulley Muntari returned to Serie A last July after a one-year stint with Portsmouth. When Mourinho was unable to revitalize his relationship with Frank Lampard and lure him to Serie A, Muntari was the solution.

The Portuguese coach has stated in the past that the Ghanaian international was their best option, and that he is a top quality player. Europe's grand stage will provide him the opportunity to make his a household name.
Barcelona

A club as large and talent-boasting as Barcelona should have won the Champions League more than twice (1992, 2006). Glancing at Real Madrid's nine titles in the competition automatically brings a sour taste, but at the same time adds devotion.

Barca had the chances last year to defeat Manchester United in the semifinal, but let it slip out of their hands. Passing, and play-making were evident, but the finishing touch didn't arrive.

Bright Star

Considered by many the finest footballer on the planet, Lionel Messi will give Cristiano Ronaldo all he can handle in an ultimate two-way battle for the World Player of the Year Award.

The Argentine has been donned as Diego Maradona's successor, and the tricky playmaker is up to the challenge. Having sat out the 2006 final against Arsenal due to injury, Messi's desire is fueled to lead the Catalan club this time around.

Question Mark

Thierry Henry can still create some of the magic that made him a legend at the Emirates Stadium. However, consistency is a concern and there plenty of young guns waiting on their opportunity.

At 31-years-of age, he's losing a yard here and there. Out with the old, in with the new perhaps.

X-Factor

More playing time may be inevitable for 18-year-old Bojan Krkic who has shined with three goals in the early-going. Acclaimed as a future superstar for years, the young striker scored 11 goals in his first full season at the Nou Camp.

Last year, Krkic became the first player born in the 1990s to score in the Champions League when he potted an away strike against Schalke in the quarter-finals.

Sporting Lisbon

Sporting saw a fine run to the UEFA Cup Final in 2005, but they have never advanced past the group stages in the Champions League. The Portuguese side have seen more than enough of Barcelona, and will hope for a fresh adversary from the draw.

Bright Star

Among the list of Brazilians with tremendous capability, the name Liedson doesn't receive enough mention. It may turn out costly for Brazil having never called the 30-year-old to compete for the national team.

Rumour has it that a Portugal call-up may be nearing, and Liedson has turned into a fine acquisition for Sporting with his nose for the goal.

Question Mark

Fabio Rochemback's emergence with Sporting hasn't shaped out as planned. The Brazilian has much to prove after an unsuccessful spell with Middlebrough.

Like many, he was labelled a star when he sealed his move to England. He proved insufficient in creating a string of fine performances, and struggled to play as a winger or midfielder. No improvements have caught the eye since his return back to Portugal.

X-Factor

Another player who struggled in the EPL, Helder Postiga seemingly never managed to reach the potential that he was capable of. The Portuguese international is aiming to match the success he found with FC Porto as a youngster.

Liedson will need a helping hand in terms of goal-scoring, and Postiga may be the key ingredient.

Liverpool

One of the most exciting team's in football, Liverpool's last triumph in the Final was in 2005 when they erased a 3-0 AC Milan lead to win on penalties. Two of the Reds previous titles came at the Stadio Olympico in Rome, where this year's final will take place.

Rafael Benitez' success has been largely in the Champions League, as he has not quite had as good of a handle on the Premier League.

Bright Star

Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard complement one another's games terrifically. Torres showed no issues adapting to the English style last season with 30 goals in all competitions.

Captain Gerrard is always there to pull the team through when they need him most, and has already struck five teams in the competition.

Question Mark

There is speculation that Robbie Keane may be on the move when the January transfer window opens. Keane hasn't found the degree that made him a star with Tottenham Hotspur, and the frustration is beginning to show.

Torres won't remain on the sidelines much longer, and young Frenchman David Ngog netted his first Champions League goal against PSV Eindhoven. Is this another road block for Keane to get through?

X-Factor

Ryan Babel has showed his ability to play on the wing, giving defenders plenty of trouble. A move back to Ajax Amsterdam was the topic of discussion recently with Babel not receiving the amount of playing time he'd like.

These rumours seem to have been washed out, with the Dutchman proclaiming his desire to stay at Anfield.

Atletico Madrid

Barcelona and Real Madrid will attract the most attention, but Atletico Madrid are proving their worthiness to compete in the tournament. Liverpool had no easy task facing Los Rojiblancos on both occasions, and probably should have lost the second match at Anfield.

1962 UEFA Cup winners, the club hasn't won La Liga in 12 years.

Bright Star

Sergio Aguero has taken control of Fernando Torres' former role with Madrid. A 20-year-old with composure and maturity beyond his years, this Argentine has drawn many comparisons to Lionel Messi.

Following a 19-goal campaign in the Spanish League last season, Aguero is showing no signs of letting up with seven goals this year.

Question Mark

Do the veterans like Luis Garcia and Maniche still have it in them to bring out the dependable form they've held through their careers? Garcia has the more experience of the two in European competition from his Liverpool days.

Atletico's remaining results depend highly on the steady play in center field from these two.

X-Factor

It's Simao Sambrosa's capability to cut teams open with great plays on the side that create opportunities. A Liverpool target for quite a while, the Portuguese international made the move to Spain from Benfica.

A less than stellar time in Barcelona will have Simao craving new accomplishments with the Spanish side.
Manchester United

Faced with the challenge of defending their title, United's two European Cups are a bit short in Sir Alex Ferguson's eyes. The legendary coach has led the Red Devils to 10 Premier League titles, but the Champions League means more than anything to him.

His 22-year reign is nearing a conclusion, and he'd love one more chapter as the world's best before seeing it through.

Bright Star

A no-brainer here. Cristiano Ronaldo has taken the game over on numerous occasions this year while still recuperating from injury. Manchester United made certain to keep him at Old Trafford, and rightfully so after 42 goals in all competitions last season.

Real Madrid may want him, but United have still got him. Ronaldo hasn't quite found his magic yet in the CL, but rest assured, it's only a matter of time.

Question Mark

Nani may be aching to get out of Ronaldo's shadow. The two have been widely compared to one-another, with Nani having quick dribbles and neat tricks at his disposal like his Portuguese teammate.

The 22-year-old has had his shots with six Champions League starts, and nothing to re-pay Ferguson with. If a starting role is to be maintained, it may be now or never.

X-Factor

Dimitar Berbatov has showed why he required £30.75m to leave Tottenham. Only two starts in the group stages, but the Bulgarian fired in two goals on each occasion.

Wayne Rooney's fine form of late can't be ignored, and Berbatov has had to watch from the sidelines every now and then. He was a profile marksman in his days with Bayer Leverkusen, and the big stage is proving to be a breeze for him.

Villarreal

Barcelona's mess allowed Villarreal's success last season in La Liga. A second place finish was well deserved, and the Champions League birth came with it.

El Submarino Amarillo have established themselves as a major contender in the Spanish League, and their 2006 semifinal run points to a possible danger for the opposing sides.

Bright Star

Giuseppe Rossi hasn't looked back since his move from Parma a few years ago. The Italian international has been a reliable striker in all competitions this year, and has been as effective when called to duty for his country.

Last year's 11 league goals should be surpassed easily this year, and Rossi will have his first real shot at Champions League stardom.

Question Mark

Jozy Altidore created a fine image for himself with the New York Red Bulls in the MLS. This isn't the States though, and the competition is fierce in Spain.

The American hasn't solidified a position in the starting XI, and a loan spell to Europe for some experience may be in the works.

X-Factor

Robert Pires can be a classy midfielder when in form and healthy. The Frenchman failed to shine in his first season in the Spanish League after damaging knee ligaments prior to the start of the campaign.

Pires helped his club to their great finish in the La Liga last year, and can still be a threat on the wing during the knockout stages.

Olympique Lyonnais

Lyon have never advanced past the quarter-final round, and need to prove they are more than just French Champions. Coach Claude Puel steered Lille to the Champions League in 2005 and 2006.

The former Monaco midfielder demands superior physical condition. His side have shown their resilience this year both in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, orchestrating a number of comebacks and never surrendering.

Bright Star

Good luck to anyone who wishes to pursuit Karim Benzema. Wanted by many of Europe's top clubs, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas put a €100m price tag on the Frenchman.

Benzema failed to impress at Euro 2008, but has proved himself in the Champions League once again with five goals in the group stages. His wonderful talent has ensured that he is one of the game's top strikers today.

Question Mark

The defense has looked vulnerable at times for Les Gones, and spotting teams two or three-goal leads isn't in their best interest. The never-say-die attitude will only get you out of so many predicaments.

Jean-Alain Boumsong, and John Mensah were particularly disappointing against Bayern Munich, and Lyon will have to tighten up for their next opponent.

X-Factor

Perhaps the world's best from set pieces, Juninho was sorely missed in the crucial matchup against Bayern. His experience, passing, and free-kicks have never ceased to assist Lyon.

The Brazilian has been instrumental in Lyonnais' last seven French Ligue titles, and at 33-years-of age will be one of the deciding factors in Lyon's CL fate.

Bayern Munich

Bayern last took the Champions League title in 2001, defeating Valencia on penalties. Fans remember the infamous 1999 Final where Manchester United scored two late goals to steal the honour right under them.

Last year's absence was disappointing for the fans, and the German club will look to create new memories in 2009.

Bright Star

French midfielder Franck Ribery has been everything Bayern have hoped for, and more since his transfer from Marseille. The Bundesliga 2008 Player of the Year, Ribery brings sense of coolness on midfield with his superior vision, and ball skills.

The 25-year-old was outstanding in the final group game against Lyon, netting a goal, and setting up Miroslav Klose for another.

Question Mark

Lukas Podolski never truly found his A-game in the German League, and trade rumours have been in the air for the January transfer window. Miroslav Klose and Luca Toni are the preferred two up front.

While there's no doubting either's credentials, is letting Podolski go after a fine Euro 2008 the wisest of decisions?

X-Factor

Aggressive midfielder Tim Borowski was brought in on a free transfer from Werder Bremen. Injuries haven't been able to keep him down, and they've only motivated him to work harder if anything.

He brings a full 90-minute effort, unselfishness, and unusual tactics. Speed, however, is a weakness for the big German.

Arsenal

Just when it seems like the Gunners are done for, they find life with an unbelievable performance. Their victories over Manchester United and Chelsea in the Premier League weren't anticipated.

You just can't seem to predict which Arsenal squad is going to step onto the pitch on a given day. An early exit in the knockout stages, or a tournament win wouldn't surprise me either way.

Bright Star

Arsene Wenger had to ensure that Cesc Fabregas didn't jump ships like Alexander Hleb, Gilberto Silva, and Mathieu Flamini did. Arsenal's key playmaker had a series of fine performances for Spain at Euro 2008.

Despite interest from Real Madrid, Fabregas claims that Arsenal is the best place for him. With the captain's armband now, the 21-year-old will look to keep the team from falling apart as they did when William Gallas criticized the group.

Question Mark

Speaking of Gallas' outbursts, will the Frenchman be able to keep it bottled up during the Champions League? You could see the expression on his face during the last group match with FC Porto, and he wasn't too pleased.

Regardless, he still has the ability to keep the top teams off the scoresheet. Being stripped of the captaincy by Arsene Wenger should only fuel his engine.

X-Factor

Robin Van Persie was the hero in Arsenal's 2-1 triump over Chelsea on Nov. 30. Both goals were world-class, and the Dutchman has earned comparisons with fellow countryman Dennis Bergkamp.

His control and trickery have you believe that he's one of the game's top prospects. Health concerns have arisen in the past, and Van Persie will need to remain 100 percent for Arsene Wenger.

FC Porto

Porto have been able to pull off shocking upsets against big teams in the past, as shown by their 1986 and 2004 European titles. This year won't be any different in terms of goals.

Never quite struggling in their domestic league, the Portuguese side are never an easy opponent on their home field. If they can maintain their credibility at the Estadio do Dragao Stadium as they did recently against Arsenal, FC Porto could be the wild card of this competition.

Bright Star

The not so secret weapon here is Lisandro Lopez, and his 27 goals in all competitions last year weren't by mistake. A number of Portuguese titles already have his name on them, and the Argentine will look to add to his trophy case.

He has a knack for finishing, and seems to be in the right position when balls come into the box.

Question Mark

A nickname like Hulk gives you goosebumps. Givanildo Vieira de Souza bulks up the offense, but hasn't been too noticeable thus far in the Champions League.

Not only does he look to prove he's good enough to compete for FC Porto, but he hopes to earn himself a spot on Brazil's national side. After playing a few years in the far East, the exposure itself will do wonders.

X-Factor

Lucho Gonzalez didn't hit his peak at an early age. I don't know if 27-years-of age is considered old, but that's when the Argentine became the brilliant midfield operator he is today.

Barcelona were admirers of Gonzalez, but a nice pay increase re-established his loyalty to Porto.

Real Madrid

Controversy has been surrounding Real Madrid this season. From the dismissal of Bernd Schuster for Juande Ramos, to yesterday's defeat at the hands of Barcelona in El Classico.

Fans will still be expecting a record tenth European title in the near future, and Ramos will have his work cut out for him.

Bright Star

Nobody can match Raul's scoring record in the Champion's League, and at the age of 31, he's still firing them in. The veteran has struck three times in the tournament, and on six occasions in La Liga.

Excluded from Spain's Euro 2008 squad, he seems to come alive when the European spotlight comes down on him. If he gets a chance in the box, you'll be made to pay.

Question Mark

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar was brought to the Bernabeu to replace Ruud Van Nistelrooy, who's out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. A deadly striker in the Dutch League, Huntelaar has yet to play for his new club.

He should get his chance in the round of 16 for Los Merengues.

X-Factor

Frustration began to mount for Arjen Robben when he observed most of his first season at Madrid on the sidelines with an injury. He's shown his passing, and scoring abilities time after time when he's up-and-running.

Coming off a goal, and an assist against Zenit St Petersburg, Robben will have to be at his best for the upcoming matches.

Juventus

It didn't feel quite right having a Champions League without Juventus the past two years. The 1985 and 1996 champions haven't looked out of place, and even managed to win Group H ahead of Madrid.

Juventus have done well to recover from the 2006 Italian match-fixing scandal, and the two victories over Madrid indicate a lengthy stay in the tournament. Could it a triumphant return all the way?

Bright Star

Alessandro Del Piero has been the star for the Old Lady for years, and has already made headlines in the competition. Last year's top scorer in Serie A, he seems to improve with age like a fine wine.

The skipper's bag of skills, powerful finishing (from set pieces especially), and experience will carry Juventus.

Question Mark

Is David Trezeguet still going to be given much of an opportunity to succeed? The Frenchman has displayed his goal-scoring touch for years, yet can't seem to win over his coaches.

His 20 goals in the Italian League last year were second only to teammate Del Piero's. Trezeguet will be lucky to see a substantial amount of time on the playing field. Don't ask me why.

X-Factor

Let us not forget Pavel Nedved. The former Czech international has spent his fair share of time with the Bianconeri and hasn't let age slow him down, too much.

A midfielder with smooth passing, and timely finishing, it won't be Nedved's first trip against Europe's elite competition. Experience and it's value can't be stressed enough.