Andy Townsend's verdict on the Champions League draw

21 March 2009 01:04
Torres[LNB]THIS IS TOO CLOSE TO CALLThe tie neither side wanted. Fernando Torres is back in form and Liverpool begin as favourites due to the way they protect their back four. But this time they are up against Guus Hiddink, desperate to put one over the master of the two-legged tie, Rafa Benitez.[LNB]BARCA'S QUALITY WILL TELLThe best attacking force in the competition - Barcelona - against Bayern, the team who have just smashed the knockout goalscoring record. Franck Ribery is Bayern's talisman, but the Spanish team, with Lionel Messi their key midfielder, will have too much quality and make the last four with a bit to spare.[LNB]Ronaldo[LNB]GOOD DRAW FOR UNITEDThere will be memories of when Porto knocked out United at Old Trafford but the current side do not travel well. They are difficult to beat at home but it's nothing United, who hope Cristiano Ronaldo will hit top gear, haven't seen before. But they would have preferred to have started away.[LNB]TOUGH FOR THE GUNNERSVillarreal proved difficult to break down in the group stages. If Arsenal get past them it won't be by much. They have the classic counter-attacking style which will test the nerve of Arsene Wenger's young guns to the max. But if Robin van Persie (right) is on song I think Arsenal have enough to win.[LNB] Make it a Rome from home: Draw favours Premier crew but Liverpool land Chelsea[LNB]Liverpool v Chelsea: Past Champions League meetings[LNB]CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW: Liverpool and Chelsea square up for another European showdown as United and Arsenal avoid the big boys[LNB]Who's your money on in the Champions League? Sportsmail's team-by-team guide to the last eight[LNB] [LNB] [LNB]  

Source: Daily_Mail