Group D
The Group of Death kicked off with Manchester City and Real Madrid going head-to-head at the Bernabeu. The Citizens may have won the Premier League but that doesnt compare to winning the Champions League; just ask Chelsea. Last season City found out the hard way. Either way, a trip to the Spanish capital is one of the most daunting prospects in world football for any team. While some may call it a classic it is easy to forget the first half was lethargic and produced no goals. Things improved after 60 minutes when Edin Dzeko snatched the first and then ten minutes later when Marcelo drew level with an impressive strike. With five minutes remaining it appeared to be heading towards a 1-1 draw; then Alexander Kolarov scored. The Whites are the most successful and famous team in Champions League history and they showed their class with late goals from the exceptional Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo. Real Madrid are in the midst of a disappointing spell they have lost to Getafe and Sevilla in La Liga but this inspired victory could spur them on. Manchester City have nothing to be ashamed of; few teams come to the Bernabeu and almost win. Roberto Mancini has yet to prove himself in European competitions which puts pressure on his position. Roman Abramovich went through many experienced managers before Chelsea won the tournament last season. The other match involved Ajax travelling to the Signal Iduna Park to face Dortmund, where they lost 1-0 to the Germans courtesy of an 87th minute goal from Robert Lewandowski. Dortmund may be the Bundesliga champions but they face a stern challenge if they want to beat either Manchester City or Real Madrid and advance from the group. Ajax have a chance of making the Europa League place at best.