Neil

The win will no doubt be an extra confidence boost for Barca (if they needed it, that is) ahead of Stamford Bridge, but otherwise, it only served to prove what we already knew: against a side who try to play Barca at their own game, they have the potential to rape them, Pardew style. Factors such as the style of La Liga football, differences in defensive quality should be taken into consideration though. I still think Chelsea are favourites IMO, and if they can have a solid start defensively, I can see another clean sheet. I hope not though tbh, would love for this crop of Barca players to show their quality against an English side.

I like Hiddink - refreshingly honest about how they played, win lose or draw.

Motson actually makes me angry. Completely ignored the fact Cech should have kept the shot out. Drogbaaarrrr. Anelka scored just because they were playing 2 up front. Just seriously, John, retire. Now.

Doubt he'd be doing that if Arsenal were chasing the title or unsure of their 4th place, but his honesty should be applauded. Really impressed by Arshavin; not because of his undoubted quality, but how much of an impact he's having on games.

Errr, yes Alves is doing badly but wtf is the commentator on about? Very unprofessional blabbering on saying anyone could have done better, etc. Did MOTD cheekily edit out his stamp on the Boro right back btw?

Now he's doubled his tally for the season, that makes Giggs' season better than Messi's, I think. World Player of the Year.

I don't think anyone has denied he's good domestically, so I don't know what point you're trying to make.

Not really a typical defensive mid IMO, pretty technically sound as well.

Oh bore off you humourless fart. Just trying to spread a bit of light relief amonst all the doom and gloom.

'Everyone hates Newcastle'

And Gibson... gives his managers such time He's so adorable.

Don't agree with you Yorkie mate. For me it was an even game, you managed to create the better quality of chances, but Pompey spurned a fair few good situations themselves, a few of which were very dangerous indeed. Don't take the "they played for a 0-0" rubbish.

Is there anything that David f***ing Pleat doesn't like to see monopolised? The game itself just struck me as a replica of the Barca-Man Utd semi last year. Man Utd going there to stifle Barca's attacking threat, Barca just trying to pass through the eye of the needle. Chelsea, unlike most Spanish teams, can actually defend. And on their day, defend very well indeed. Iniesta impressed me, him and Xavi are almost identical in their style of play. Unfortunately that style of play didn't quite click tonight. And btw, I haven't seen that much live La Liga football this year, but has Puyol been in good form? Didn't look particularly confident when he came on.

Surely it's best for you if Chelsea make the final I guess so but in footballing terms, I want Barca to play at their brilliant best.

Hope Barca roll over Chelsea tbh, and play the sort of stuff they've been playing all season. Beating an English side is one of the final challenges for them this season, coz they've pretty much dicked on everyone else.

Eff why pee.

Tell you what, what will happen if Pompey think "f*** this, we're gonna go for it as well"?

It wasn't a guess whatsoever. Honest.

Will be in the Goose for this one. Wish your lot all the best, could be an extremely tense game. Owen to score in the 56th minute and be lauded as a hero

Yup. The whole system is flawed.

Zaki should have won. He was proper mint at the start of the season. And stuff.

I dunno if words can honestly sum up what a joke the Player of the Year award actually has been this season.

Tbh it just seems like it's a general yearning for Allardyce to fail.

I've just realised how many strikers you actually have. Is Lovenkrands fit? I think you HAVE to start with Owen, Viduka, and Martins. If Lov is fit, get him, Carroll and Ranger on the bench. Harper Beye Taylor Bassong Enrique Smith Guthrie Jonas Owen Viduka Martins

Christ on a bike, and sidecar.