At the halfway stage in the Champions League semifinals, we’re no closer to knowing who will meet in the final in Istanbul late in May. The first-leg games between AC Milan and PSV Eindhoven and Liverpool and Chelsea were entertaining affairs, and highlighted how important tactics are in European competition.

The eight teams left in the Uefa Champions League compete in what should be a memorable week for European football. Some might argue that the competition is now weaker with the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Arsenal out of the tournament. But a closer look at the quarterfinal ties reveals a mixed bag.

With most of the ties still undecided, there’s plenty to look forward to in next week’s Champions League as we go from 16 teams down to eight. The first-leg games in the first knockout round lived up to all expectations. Fortunately, with many questions left unanswered, it’s only half time. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the cream of Europe will clash again.

Champions League action starts next week and the draw for the last 16 has thrown up some mouth-watering encounters. For the first time in a long time, it is English clubs that are the best represented, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool all qualifying for this, the first knock-out round.

Liverpool supporters love and cherish the anthem that reassures them that, whether there be wind or rain, they should hold their heads up high and walk on with hope in their hearts. Well, it’s been storming at Anfield for quite some time now, and unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be a golden sky in sight.

Two weeks ago, it seemed that — once again — Arsenal were going to be simply unstoppable this season. However, their past two Premiership outings have cast some doubt on this dominance. First there was the defeat to Manchester United, which brought to an end a remarkable unbeaten record.