Barcelona is a talented and formidable football machine which, like the battering ram used by besieging armies in mediaeval times against a castle’s gate, keeps hammering incessantly upon the opponent’s goal posts.

The Gunners, contrary to their appellation, are more like a testudo, the massed overlapping body shields of the Roman Legionnaires, presenting a defensive formation against enemy action, and at intervals sallying forth to catch their opponents off balance.

Playing in Paris, Arsenal have achieved their great ambition and this may prove to be the feather to break Barca’s back.

In any case, Europe expects a thrilling and exciting game in the best traditions of European football.

Colonel (Retd) Ethelwald Emilius Vella

Manikata