Champions League matches 12/7/2010.

Concluding Group A action, Twente face Tottenham in the Netherlands which may be a good match as FC Twente's place in the Europa League is not assured and Tottenham will probably want the top spot of the Group. Twente won't be getting through to the next round of the Champions League though, with a five point margin between themselves and Tottenham and Inter who each have ten points. Bremen will be facing Inter in Germany which may inspire the under-performing side to some level of greatness, however the chance of that happening is marginal. The Germans could theoretically challenge for a place in the Europa League, if Twente lose and the goal difference drops below seven, however those chances aren't too great. In Group B meanwhile, Lyon will be taking on Hapoel Tel-Aviv in France while Benfica host Schalke in Portugal. Lyon shouldn't have too much trouble with the Israeli side however the match between Schalke and Benfica may be something interesting as Benfica could challenge for second place, but the more likely course of events will be that they will be playing next year in the Europa League, better than nothing! In Group C, Manchester United face-off against Valencia in Manchester in what could be an interesting but will probably be a disappointing game. The other Group C match-up is between Bursaspor from Turkey and Rangers of Scotland. As it will take place in Turkey, it could be said that Bursaspor will give it a go and try to salvage something from a dismal Champions League run. However, Rangers won't fall too easily so I could see this turning into an interesting match. Finally in Group D, Barcelona will be hosting Rubin while Kobenhavn welcome Panathinaikos. As Barca are untouchable, some would argue that they may let Rubin win, but in front of a home Catalan audience? And soil an undefeated Champions League run thus far? I don't see that happening. They'll give Rubin a fair match without a doubt. Kobenhavn may be counting on it. Sure, the Greeks of Panathinaikos haven't been performing too well, but they may go all out in their last match. I still think Kobenhavn can handle them, especially in Denmark. More matches tomorrow so keep an eye out! Match reports will come later.