Champions League - "Tottenham will win"
Maldini is considered one of the leading international football experts in Spain. After years in the media, he now covers the biggest games across Europe for television, radio and via newspaper columns. Here he looks ahead to some of the biggest games of matchday five...
Partizan Belgrade v Shakhtar
Shakhtar play a very aggressive game and show great quality from midfield upwards. They are the league leaders in Ukraine and, except for the bad result away to Arsenal, they've won almost every game this season. They have exceptional players like Jadson, Eduardo and Luiz Adriano, and they play to a very high level. This time, they are playing for second place against a rival without much to play for.
Maldini's tip: Back Shakhtar at [1.78]
Ajax v Real Madrid
Ajax are a powerful team, with Luis Suarez and Miralem Sulejmani, but in the Champions League they seem to have a weak defence. It won't be easy for them to handle the strength that Real have in attack. Jose Mourinho's men are getting stronger and more motivated, and they are aiming to confirm top spot. Their players are quick and aggressive, but they might lose some of their power if Ajax manage to block Xabi Alonso.
Maldini's tip: Lay Ajax at [3.35]
Tottenham v Werder Bremen
Werder have been very inconsistent in their play and have been taking too many risks in defence, which is already having a negative effect both in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. On the other hand, Tottenham have extra motivation as this is their first taste of the Champions League. After their great match against Inter, they should be able to win easily.
Maldini's tip: Back Tottenham at [1.51]
Rubin Kazan v FC Copenhagen
The Danish team are doing well in the Champions League and they seem to have a very good strategy. However, I think their previous victory against Rubin was somewhat fortunate since it was the Russian team that dominated the whole game.
Maldini's tip: Back Rubin Kazan at [1.97]
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Published: 24 Nov 2010
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