Panathinaikos vs. Manchester United - Preview

Panathinaikos vs. Manchester United 
Wednesday 26th November, 2003
Champions League 1st Group Stage

Manchester United will be looking to secure qualification to the European Cup's second round with a result against Greek-outfit Panathinaikos. United need only one point at the Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium to secure a place in the last-16 of the competition.

In Group E's other fixture, Glasgow Rangers travel to Germany to face pool leaders Stuttgart in their first Champions League game since their footballing lesson from Manchester United. The 'Gers need a victory to stand any chance of qualification to the next phase, with Uefa Cup qualification looking most likely for McLeish's side.

The Greeks' chance of gaining qualification is quite low by only achieving 1 point in 4 games. However, their domestic results have gone quite the other way and haven't been beaten in the league since October 5th!

As for team news, skipper Roy Keane has not traveled to Athens due to a hamstring problem so Eric Djemba-Djemba, who scored against Panathinaikos in the corresponding fixture, Nicky Butt and Kleberson are all set to feature in the middle of the park.

Panathinaikos will have to deal without the services of Nassif Morris, but apart from his injury coach Itzhak Shum has a full squad to pick from.

If you fancy a flutter on the game in hand, Ladbrokes has placed United at 4/6 to come away with all 3 points, but the Greeks have been placed at 10/3 to win. 

He transferred to the club from fellow Greek side Iraklis in 2001 for a record £8 million.

1

These type of Champions League games are always going to be difficult, but I'm feeling optimistic. I think United will edge a 2-1 victory

U-N-I-T-E-D

2

Set as Homepage

Contact the Author

Add to Favourites