Lenny Boyle
Saturdays Champions League Final 2012 between Bayern Munich and Chelsea
16/05/2012
Bayern Munich v Chelsea, Champions LeagueFinal
It is an ironic twist of the footballing fates that in the year Roman Abramovich’s massive football investment was overshadowed by the success of even larger football riches - the Abu Dhabibacked Man City lifting their first league title since ’68. In that year; he has come closest to achieving his ultimate dream. The Champions League.
It is true that the Abramovich era hasn't exactly lacked trophies. But even those league titles won under Mourinho and Ancelotti were always a poor consolation to a Russian oligarch attracted to football by the glitz and glamour, and the stirring theme song of the Champions League. He, and his team, could be about to make it all worth it.
The sackings, the chaos at the club. The racism scandals and the negative press. It could all be worth it for the mega-rich Russian who bought a club as a play-thing.
It is a shame for Chelsea - and a boon for Tottenham, who after all need Chelsea to lose to qualify for next season’s competition - that standing in the way of their ultimate dream, their raisond'être, is the stolid, stoic and always dependable German giants; Bayern Munich.
Oh yeah, and they have home-field advantage.
One other thing: Branislav Ivanovic, Ramires, Raul Meireles and John Terry are all serving match bans. While Florent Malouda is doubtful with a dodgy hamstring.
More difficulties for Chelsea: makeshift centre half pairing of David Luiz and Gary Cahill are both returning to fitness. They are not the first choice players for such a vital position in what could be an essentially defensive display.
If Abramovich is to finally achieve his dream of European glory it may have to be in the manner of another backs to the wall, blood and glory encounter. As Chelsea managed against the forme rgreatest-team-ever Barcelona.
Backs to the wall, or gun ho for glory;the Champions League final rarely disappoints.
Remember you can watch this event live on your computer or mobile with Sky Sports Streaming on Sky Go. Need a UK IP address? Click Here
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