The knock out stage of the Champions' League is set. The round of 16 will get underway in February. Below are the group winners which we've ranked in order. All group winners play a #2 seed (group runner-up) in the second round. The group winners will host the second game. Barcelona just like at the start of the competition is our favored team. However there are probably a dozen teams capable of reaching the semifinals.
Group WinnersBarcelona - The defending champs, I think only want to avoid Milan.
Chelsea - Built to win this thing this year.
Real Madrid - When healthy they should have be attack.
Manchester United - Always favorite, extra tough at home.
Bordeaux - Flying under the radar, for now.
Arsenal - Easy initial group, now we'll see what they really have.
Fiorentina - Played great in the group phase, however inexpericence could show now.
Sevilla - They'll have a fight to advance.
#2 SeedsInter Milan - They should fear nobody, especially since they can't be drawn against Barc.
AC Milan - How will Beckham help them when he arrives.
Bayern München - If healthy they'll be a force
Olympique Lyonnais - Could this be their break through year or is time running out.
CSKA Moscow - Will be a tough out.
FC Porto - Unproven
VfB Stuttgart - Could be tough especially at home.
Olympiacos - On paper they have the least talent.
Of course the winter transfer period could change these rankings a lot. Right now this is how we feel they should be ranked. Remember UFEA doesn't rank the groups, and teams can not play another team from their country or original group.
