Champions League Results

Milan Knocked Out by Arsenal

In an almost one sided game, the defending Champions AC Milan has to bow down to their opponent Arsenal in the return leg of Champions League last sixteen. This result means that Milan could end this season without a trophy as they already out of the Coppa Italia and is behind Inter Milan with more than 20 points in the Serie A. Currently they are 5th in the league, which means one position behind the last team to qualify for Champions League next season.

Milan started the game very well, with chances from Pato and Pippo Inzaghi. Maldini also had his header cleared off the line by Fabregas. But on the half our mark, Arsenal began to dictate the game. Kalac had to save a thunderous shoot from Adebayor. A while later Fabregas hit the woodwork from just outside of the penalty area. Approaching half time, Arsenal still played their passing game while Milan sit back and tried to counter attack using long ball.

Milan tried to control the game in the second half only to find themselves forced to defend. Both Senderos and Eboue had chances but they missed. Pirlo then tested Almunia from a free-kick. Milan found it hard to break down Arsenal's midfield, these really frustrate them and was showed by Kaka who received a yellow card after throwing the ball to the ground. On a quick break from the midfield Fabregas launched a long shot which ended in the back of the net. Arsenal then had an away goal advantage thus Milan had to come out and really need the equalizer. By doing so they left their defense open. Walcott exploited Milan's lack of concentration. He was left open the right side and then he sent a low cross which was met by Adebayor to make it 2-0 for Arsenal. By then Milan's faith was sealed, they were really punished for their lack of stamina. This is understandable looking at their tight schedules which force them to play every three days.

Milan's elimination leave the competition wide open. So this year we will have a new champions. Last time a team win this competition back to back is Milan who won it in 1989 and 1990, since then there is no other team who can be champions two times in a row.