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The Champions League is moving along quickly. The quarterfinal series have ended, and now fans will be treated to some great semi final ties. Let's take a look at the ties and what the teams had to do to get there.
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will face each other in what is sure to be a difficult match for both teams.
Real Madrid vs APOEL 5-2 (Agg 8-2)
Last night, Real Madrid advanced to the semifinals of the Champions League with an 8-2 aggregate victory over APOEL. Their 5-2 victory at the Bernebeau came courtesy of some spectacular goals, including a fantastic Cristiano Ronaldo free kick and a beautiful long range, curling effort from Kaka. You can read the rest of Lucas's recap here.
Bayern Munich vs Olympique Marseille 2-0 (Agg 4-0)
Bayern struggled a little more to move on, but their 2-0 victory over French club Olympique de Marseille at home, and consequent 4-0 aggregate was sufficient to advance. The German club has Ilvica Olic to thank for both goals.
The match:
Real Madrid are in for a challenge when it come to Bayern. The German club is highly motivated considering the final will be held before their own fans at the Allianz arena. They are also highly organized and a considerable threat. But the match will be no walk in the park for Bayern either, considering Madrid have been in great form. Although we saw defensive shakiness last night, we also saw their offensive strength. The semi final tie is shaping up to be an entertaining match, and if Madrid focus, address some issues in the defense, and avoid major injuries, they have a big chance of advancing to the final of Europe's elite club competition. Hala Madrid!
The next semi-final is also looking like a spectacle and a match you should not miss: Chelsea vs. Barcelona.
Barcelona vs AC Milan 3-1 (Agg 3-1)
Barcelona brushed aside AC Milan 3-1 at the Camp Nou in a controversial match after their goalless draw at the San Siro. Lionel Messi was on hand to fire in two penalties in the first half, and Andres Iniesta also scored in the second half. Antonio Nocerino drew the match with his goal, but his strike was cancelled out by the second penalty. The Italians are complaining about the referee's decisions, however, Barca still sealed their place in the semis (unfortunately).
Chelsea vs Benfica 2-1 (Agg 3-1)
Chelsea's victory over Benfica came courtesy of a penalty from Lampard, and an extra time strike from Raul Meireles at Stamford Bridge. Although Javi Garcia scored at 85', the English side won the match 2-1, advancing with a 3-1 aggregate.
The match:
Barcelona are the favorites to advance but Chelsea definitely won't go without a fight. However, since Chelsea are still in a somewhat transitional period and Barcelona get help from the ref it is probably safe to assume Barcelona will advance. Hopefully we're proven wrong. So go Blues!
Keep the conversation going and join us in cheering for Chelsea and Real Madrid and for coverage of this year's Champions League season. Remember to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! Hala Madrid!