CL Update

Barcelona 2 - Arsenal 1
Campbell 17'
Eto'o 76'
Belletti 81'

This is what the final scorecard read at the Stade de France, where Barcelona finally exorcised their Champion's League demons. This was always going to be a fully charged affair with much excitement and drama to be expected, and as it should be in any high-profile encounter of this calibre. Early on in the first half the Catalonion club showed clear signs of open gaps as Thierry Henry, struck one at the goal from point-blank range, only for his shot to be stopped by the gladiator, Victor Valdes. Arsenal had the right idea as they attacked Barcelona from the get go and created a couple of chances but all this suddenly changed as Jens Lehmann pulled down a charging Eto'o just outside the safety box. Norwegian referee, Terje hauge, showed no hesitation in sending off the remorseful Lehmann. This was going to be a heavy price to pay it seemed, but this opinion was quickly put to rest as Campbell connected with a pinpoint accurate cross off an Henry set-piece that sent the ball screaming into the farpost. Just before the interval Eto'o came excruciatingly close to equalising as he faced off with Almunia from close range, but Almunia had other ideas and deflected the shot with his outstretched fingers apreading the magic. So far Arsenal one, and Barcelona nil and that is how the first half ended.

Despite having the man advantage, Barcelona were unable to show for their dominance, it was quite clear now, that Arsenal was more than willing to just sit back and defend. Barcelona was content on taking their time to score but this could have proved to be a risky ploy and their parience paid off when the Swedish international, Henrik Larsson, came off the bench and fed Eto'o with an amazing pass. This time Eto'o faced off once again with Almunia and having learnt from his previous attempt, Eto'o nailed this one home at the nearpost where Almunia left a gaping void! The heavens opened up for Barcelona as they showered blessings on the Spanish champs. Barcelona clearly revitalised after the equaliser showed to the world once again why they were deserving champs as for the next 5 minutes Barcelona barely allowed Arsenal a touch and again this time it was Larsson set up Belletti who sneaked one in beneath the legs of the troubled Almunia. The scoreline ended at 2-1 with a magnificent showcase of football although Barcelona clearly lacked the flair tonight that they are usually known for.

Ronaldinho failed to impress and deliver the goods tonight as so much was expected of him, it is a pity that the world did not get to see this genius at work. This was Arsenal's night, but it did not belong to them, as they played with all their heart and might but it just was not meant to be. Despite being a man down Arsenal showed the qualities that brought them here so far. Perhaps a more attacking frontline for the Londoners would do them good in the future. Having Henry bear all the burden of scoring seems a little unfair, afterall there is only so much one can do. Barcelona stamping their authority a second time on this competition were ecstatic as their internationl stars look forward to the upcoming World Cup in Germany.