[Justin O]

2003-02-19 Manchester United - Juventus (0)
Pick: Juventus (0), Odds: 2.71, Stake: 5, Bookmaker: Canbet

With their 0-2 loss to Arsenal and 1-1 draw against Man City, United have shown some cracks at Old Trafford. Certainly this has not gone unnoticed by the Italian league leaders who will definitely be confident going into this match. Del Piero may be injured for Juventus but they still will field a squad loaded with talent. Their stifling defense, which has given up 8 away goals in 11 matches, should cause plenty of problems for United, despite their many offensive weapons. As with Real Madrid, I think United's reputation is preceding them a bit here. I'm confident based on United's recent form that Juventus can take them out, though I'll take a (0) handicap given that if it's tied late Juventus would probably be satisfied with a draw.


2003-02-19 Real Madrid - Borussia Dortmund (+1)
Pick: Dortmund (+1), Odds: 2.05, Stake: 5, Bookmaker: Canbet

Champions League - It's the current number twos in Spain and Germany in what should prove to be a critical match given that one of these 2 clubs is likely to be the odd team out when the second group stage is finished. Real seem to be doing something that gets you in trouble no matter what the sport. They've become rather complacent and seem to be confident in their ability to turn it on whenever they need to. While their competition in Spain are stumbling enough that they will probably get away with such an attitude domestically, in the Champions League I think they are at risk. Dortmund have not been perfect of late but they are clearly superior to some of the Spanish clubs who lately have given Real all they can handle. In looking at the prices for Dortmund I think Real's reputation is preceding them a bit here. Given that Dortmund would probably be satisfied with a draw, I'll take them with an asian handicap of (+1) which will also protect me from a late Real winner.

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