CL Roundup: United and Barca in pole position

Manchester United and Barcelona secure one foot in the Champions League semi-finals. United defeated Chelsea 1 – 0 and Barca hammered Shakhtar 5 – 1

United undoubtedly faced the more difficult challenge against rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Wayne Rooney will cover the headlines again but this time for his football. Rooney’s away goal puts united in a strong position heading back to Old Trafford next week for the second leg. United scored after 24 minutes and held on for a fantastic result. Chelsea could have scored a couple but last gasp defending and outstanding saves from Van Der Sar secured a clean sheet for United.

Barcelona entertained Shakhtar Donetsk at the Nou Camp and they were in sensational form. It took Barca 2 minutes to get the scoring started with Iniesta the executor. Another from Dani Alves left Barca looking strong going into half time. The second half played out much like the first with Barca dominating possession and Shakhtar chasing their tails. Pique added a third for Barca on the 53rd minute before Rakitskiy pulled one back for the visitors on the 60th minute. Two more goals from Keita and Xavi destroyed the visitors hopes of semi-final place. Shakhtar have a mountain to climb next week.

By Ryan Muldoon