26th Apr 2011 | Football
Schalke v United Betting Tip
Schalke were flattered in victory against Inter and United will want to get the job done as soon as possible.
The pre match talk has been about Sir Alex Ferguson’s poor record against German teams over two legs. Much of this debate has been led by the United manager himself. For a man well versed in the art of mind games it is a travesty that the press have fallen for it.
Yes, United have lost four knockout ties against German teams. Do not forget they have also gone out against Italian and Spanish teams. Countries that have strong domestic leagues are usually well represented in the latter stages of tournaments. It is a statistical quirk that Ferguson is using to his advantage.
All this diverts attention from the fact that United have been extremely lucky in drawing one of the weakest semi finalists in years. They say the league table never lies and 10th place in the Bundesliga is a fair return for a struggling Schalke team who sacked their manager mid season.
Plaudits have come their way since they knocked out holders Inter Milan but in truth they came up winners in a roulette wheel of a game. The first leg could easily have finished 6-5 in favour of the Italians, changing the whole complexion of the second leg.
United are in the best form of the season and although no one dare say it, this is one of their easier games during the run in. The score line depends on how aggressive Sir Alex wants to be, so take the 11/8 on any win.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 09:54 26th Apr, 2011 but subject to change
