[Mario]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
10/1/2014

Home - Ludogorets Razgrad
Last away matches - L-W-L-W-D-L

Ludogorets is a newly established Bulgarian club. They play their home matches in UEFA competitions in Sofia, 400 km away from Razgrad. Last year they had a good run in Europa League, until they were stopped by Valencia in round of 16, it was first time when Ludogorets faced Spanish club. Bulgarian side eliminated Steaua Bucuresti in order to reach group phase of Champions League. Romanian defender Moti was hero of the second-leg as he saved two penalties in penalty shoot-out. In the first match of group stage Ludogorets did well and almost stopped Liverpool at Anfield Road. In the final seconds of the match goalkeeper Borjan made a mistake and referee gave a doubtful penalty for The Reds, which denied Ludogorets from making a big surprise. Now, coach Georgi Dermendzhiev is looking forward for the home match against Real Madrid. “They are the best team in the world and they have best players. It’s an honour for us to play against them. They won European Cup ten times and they are reigning champions.

Away - Real Madrid
Last away matches - W-W-L-L-L-L

Real Madrid are obvious favourites of this clash, however coach Carlo Ancelotti assures his team won’t underestimate their rivals. “There are no average teams in Champions League. Everyone saw how well they played in Liverpool,” said Ancelotti. He was also asked about best Ludogorets’ player, but he denied to point just one footballer: “Our strategy is to stop the team, not particular players. I was surprised with their courageous play at Anfield, they have quality, it’s a dynamic team, very dangerous on counter attacks, they play with high intensity. It won’t be an easy match.” Some people believe Los Blancos will rotate with the squad and rest best players. “I don’t plan rotations. When I see that player is tired then I rest him. First group matches are very important and it’s imperative for us to have 6 points after 2 games,” said Italian manager.

Asian Handicap
Home - (+2.00)
Away - (-2.00)
Pick - Ludogorets Razgrad (+2.00)
Odds - 2.16
Stakes - 9/10