There is no doubt that all the four quarter final first leg matches of the European Champions’ league provided shocking results. In my estimation the 4-0 drubbing of Bayern Munich by Barcelona was the most unexpected followed by Chelsea’s 3-1 away win over free scoring Liverpool. The Old Trafford 2-2 draw between Manchester United and Porto ranked third followed by Arsenal’s hard fought 1-1 stalemate with Villarreal.

On paper it looks like a mission impossible for Bayern to the scales in their favour and unless there is dramatic change in the tactics of both teams, Messi and Co can be assured a semi final berth.

Liverpool are buoyed by the dramatic manner Chelsea conceded three goals against Bolton in their last league match when they were four goals up and they feel they can do the same. If Liverpool can produce the magic that saw them overturn a 3-0 first half deficit to win the cup three seasons ago, then Michael Essien and Co would have a tough task on their hand.

Arsenal with their valuable away goal, start as favourites to eliminate Villarreal but it’s far from a done deal. The Spaniards are capable of causing an upset just like Manchester United who are disadvantaged having conceding two away goals against Porto. But it is the reputation of scoring many firsts that is urging on United to be the first English club to beat Porto at home.

Manchester United were the first English team to win the European Cup, the first to win the Premier league, the first to win the World club championship, the first to win the Intercontinental Cup and in the words of Alex Ferguson they will have to “become the first English team to beat Porto on their home ground”.

But Porto skipper Lucho Gonzalez thinks Porto can score a famous victory. “It would be a moral tragedy and a huge blow not to finish off United after the exhibition we put on at Old Trafford”. My verdict is that it will be a tough match. I have a snaky feeling that all the four matches will provide shocking results like the first leg.