Champions League Group D preview
Group C
Barcelona received the easiest draw of all European giants. Joining them will be Panathinaikos of Greece, Danish club Copenhagen and Rubin Kazan of Russia.
Barcelona
Outlook: Is it possible for Barcelona to get stronger? They just did. By bringing in Liverpool star Javier Mascherano and Valencia's David Villa, Barcelona has put themselves steps ahead of all other European clubs. With the best defensive midfielder in the world, and the most lethal striker in the world, Barcelona should bring home at least two titles this season. The team is as strong as ever, with a solid defence and brilliant midfield to go with the attack. Xavi and Iniesta will control the middle and constantly feed balls do Villa and Lionel Messi.
Most important player: Lionel Messi
Key Newcomer: David Villa (Valencia)
Player to be missed: Yaya Toure (Manchester City)
Panathinaikos
Outlook: The Greek champions from a year ago, Panathinaikos will be led by two French stars in their 2010-11 campaign. In a tough group, the Greek side will rely on Sidney Govou and Djibril Cisse to lead the attack. Former Barcelona and Liverpool player, Raul Garcia, will be a key member in the midfield. Panathinaikos should be able to take care of Copenhagen, but it will be crrucial for them to steal points from Rubin Kazan if they want to advance.
Most important player: Djibril Cisse
Key Newcomer: Sidney Govou (Lyon)
Player to be missed: None
Copenhagen
Outlook: The Lions cruised to the Danish league championship last season, but will have a tough battle as they look to achieve European glory. In 33 league games, Copenhagen only let in 22 goals, leading the league. The defence is a sure thing, but it will be up to two Brazilians to lead the offense. Newcomer Claudemir and veteran Cesar Santin will be looked upon to provide goals in crucial moments. The attacking style of the Brazilians should provide scoring opportunities during the group stage. A realistic goal for Copenhagen would be to finish third, earning a spot in the Europa League.
Most important player: Cesar Santin
Key Newcomer: Claudemir (Vitesse)
Player to be missed: None
Rubin Kazan
Outlook: The Russian champions shocked many by defeating Barcelona in Spain during last year's competition. They may need to do it again to advance. A talented team with fantastic players, Rubin will need to be consistent, just as they were in the league last season, earning first place fairly easily. In the back, the team will be led by Cristian Ansaldi. Up top, new faces will lead the way The team has brought in many offensive reinforcements for the campaign, most notably strikers Obafemi Martins and Carlos Eduardo. The team has the potential to make it to the round of 16, but must take care of business against Panathinaikos and Copenhagen.
Most important player: Cristian Ansaldi
Key newcomer: Obafemi Martins (Wolfsburg)
Player to be missed: Alejandro Dominguez (Valencia)
Prediction: Barcelona makes it through with no trouble. Copenhagen and Panathinaikos fight for third place as Rubin Kazan edges both for second.
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