United have won the Premier League already this year, edging Chelsea by two points in the final standings, but for both clubs the Champions League holds a greater significance and you know Chelsea is looking for some revenge after being over-shadowed all year by United. The two squads split the season series 1-1, with Chelsea defeating United 2-1 most recently at Stamford Bridge on April 26.
With Chelsea D John Terry still recovering from a dislocated shoulder injured on May 11, the Blues look to face one of the best Man U squads in the history of the team's existence. Manchester United F Wayne Rooney is still recovering from an injury as well, but both men are expected to be on in the starting 11 for kickoff.
This afternoon's match will either be a showcase for United's young'ns Rooney and MF Cristiano Ronaldo, a power contest with Chelsea's F Didier Drogba and MF Michael Ballack, or another snooze fest like earlier in the season. I highly doubt it will be the latter.
While today's match certainly has its implications for both sides, Chelsea seems to have a bit more riding on the result. They are desperate to win the Champions League Final following three semi-final eliminations in the last four years. Moscow is also home to the Russian-born Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who would love nothing more than a win in the white North.
With Joe Cole and Florent Malouda providing support from the flanks, Drogba may be playing his last contest with Chelsea after admitting a desire to play for Milan. Recent reports cite that Drogba may have changed his tune and may want to stay after all.
One thing is for sure--England and Europe will have a new champion in just a few hours.
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