Champions League: Week One Review

By Jamie Callaghan /

Group G

Celtic and Benfica played to a fairly dull 0-0 draw, with neither team really having many shots on goal. Only two shots at goal were on target and both teams shared possession. The Portuguese team will be disappointed that they failed to capitalise on Celtic€™s lack of experience but the guias are most dangerous at the Estadio da Luz. Meanwhile, Celtic haven€™t been in Champions League for a few years and they will probably be aiming for a Europa League place at best. Spartak Moscow almost pulled off the surprise of the night when they went 2-1 up against Barcelona at the Nou Camp. Cristian Tello smashed the ball into the bottom right early on but a sloppy own goal from Dani Alves levelled things. Spartak linked well to put Romulo through on goal and the Brazilian stroked the ball past Victor Valdes to put the Narodnaya komanda in control. With only twenty minutes to go Lionel Messi came to the aid of the Catalans with a double which secured the victory. Barcelona are the obvious favourites for the group and arguably the favourites to win the entire competition for a third time in five years. The main competition will be over the battle for second place. Benfica are strong at home and have plenty of experience €“ they topped the group Manchester United were eliminated from last season €“ while Spartak have some quality players. Celtic are the most likely to finish bottom but they are to be respected and they could still influence the final positioning.