9/17 CL Real Madrid (Figo) v. Roma (R)

Don't forget to set your VCRs, take a couple of hours off or do whatever you need to do -- Real Madrid - Roma Tuesday afternoon (2:30 EST) on ESPN 2.

 

I don't know Frank. It is a road game. I see them winning 2-1 on a late Guti goal. I just hope Figo is half as good as he was last year against Roma, when he singlehandedly won the game for the Merengues.

 

The first leg is in the Olympic Stadium. Real Madrid had a private audience this afternoon with the pope.

 

So, who is the idiot who forgot to program his VCR this morning? I am SO mad at myself.

 

1-0 Real at the half. Figo involved in the buildup of the goal, according to uefa.com:

"41' 1-0 to Madrid. From nothing. As a Roma move breaks down, Figo darts forward and feeds the ball to Raúl. The striker lays the ball off for Guti just inside the penalty area and he beats Antonioli with a terrific curling shot. "

 

2-0 Real. Raul with the goal from Guti:

56' 2-0 to Madrid. Incredible. Guti breaks and is immediately shackled by Roma defenders, but he is able to lay the ball off for Raúl who drives the ball past Antonioli from just outside the penalty area.

 

Guti once again:

75' 3-0 to Madrid. From nowhere again, Guti eludes the Roma defence and beats Antonioli with a low shot which flies just inside the goalkeeper's left-hand post.

Only a few mentions of Figo on the match tracker. I am sure someone who watched the game will be able to provide a better assessment of his performance.

 

Almost Frank.

I was right in that Guti would be the hero of the day.

 

In fairness, Roma was without Totti and Bati, both of whom would have at least made some difference. And, Real is not exactly PAOK. You are talking about an awesome collection of talent playing for the Whites.