AC Milan Vs. Barcelona, 2012 UEFA Champions League: Game Underway, Milan Blow Early Chances

We're off and running at the San Siro, where AC Milan are taking on Barcelona in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Milan have never lost a home quarterfinal in the CL, and so far things are looking pretty good for the hosts. They're putting significant pressure on Barcelona's back line and are forcing their guests into some crazy mistakes. It's something of a miracle (from Barca's standpoint) that Milan aren't already ahead.

A mistake from Javier Mascherano ended up gifting Kevin-Prince Boateng with a free shot on goal from 16 yards, but the Nigerian hesitated and saw his drive blocked. Seconds later, Zlatan Ibrahimovic managed to send in a header that released Robinho one on one against Victor Valdes, but the Brazilian skied his effort harmlessly over when you'd have put money on him to bury it. I have no idea how he failed to score there.

Barcelona are doing some attacking of their own, and Lionel Messi has given Milan a scare with a driving cross before winning a free kick at the edge of the box, but the home side have had the better chances early. Let's see what Barca make of this set piece though...