Holders Manchester United face a difficult game at Inter Milan later on Tuesday when the Champions League bursts back on the scene with some mouth-watering last-16 ties.
Italian champions Inter have flattered to deceive in Europe for many years but coach Jose Mourinho, who won the trophy in 2004 with Porto before reaching two semifinals with Chelsea, has an excellent record against Premier League leaders United.
United manager Alex Ferguson has worries in defence with Nemanja Vidic suspended and Jonny Evans and John O’Shea carrying knocks.
The Anglo-Italian theme continues with Arsenal, who have drawn their last three league games 0-0, welcoming AS Roma.
Stylish Spanish leaders Barcelona suffered a surprise derby defeat by Espanyol at the weekend but will look for a quick recovery at Olympique Lyon.
Atletico Madrid are also in action at home to Porto with the rest of the first knockout round first legs, including Real Madrid against Liverpool, taking place on Wednesday. — Reuters