Soccer: Champions League Group A Review

Here’s a quick review in Group A,

Basel

Swiss champions 17 points clear of the rest last term, they’ve a new manager in former Swiss midfielder Raphael Wicky this term.

Look out for Ricky van Wolfswinkel, who flopped in the Premier League with Norwich, up front…he’s confident again after 23 goals for Vitesse last term in Holland, starting life in Switzerland with four in four.

Benfica

The Eagles won a 36th Portuguese title last term but were thrashed by Borussia Dortmund in the round of 16.

Again this summer they have sold key men, including keeper Ederson and Victor Lindelof. Much is expected of Franco Cervi.

Man United

Manchester United put all their eggs in the Europa League basket late last season, and it paid off as they beat Ajax in Stockholm.

Now they’re back at Europe’s top table and the likes of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Paul Pogba and new comer Lukaku will hope to make an impression. Having been handed a fortunate draw can Jose Mourinho win a third Champions League?

CSKA Moscow

Every year they’re here. Every year they don’t get through.

Igor Akinfeev doesn’t do clean sheets in Europe. Can they finish third?