Posted on 3/31/2008 8:38:36 PM

Soccer Betting Champions League AS Roma vs Manchester United

By Nila Amerova

The first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal pits the two Soccer titans AS Roma and Manchester United for the fifth time against each other in the last 12 months and for the second time in successive seasons in the final eight. Bet on the Champions League at BetUS Sportsbook – the world’s premier destination for soccer betting. BetUS takes you front and centre with soccer odds on this scintillating quarterfinal match in the Champions League along with much, much more.

Future Odds:

AS Roma to Qualify for Semifinals +190

Manchester United to Qualify for Semifinals -240

After the Reds soundly defeated the Italians 7-1 in the second leg of their encounter last season (advancing with an 8-3 on aggregate), this is one of the most anticipated matchups of the Champions League this year. In their second shot, will the Italians avenge their loss or will the Reds replicate their winning performance of last season to advance into the semifinals once again. The odds makers would seem to favour the Reds at -240 to qualify for the semifinals and I would agree with the bookies on this one.

Soccer Odds: AS Roma vs. Manchester United

Match time: 02:45 PM Eastern Time Tuesday April 1, 2008

Team: AS Roma

Spread: PK +110

Moneyline: +185

Total Points: Over 2 -125

Draw: +200

Last year, AS Roma seized the first leg with a 3-2 victory, but received a trouncing on English soil 7-1 in the second leg – a difficult memory to overcome. The Italians will be chaffing from that loss and before a partisan crowd, they will be anxious to play for the home win. However, the Italian squad will be playing minus Totti – a huge blow, as he is not only the best player but their captain as well and leader on the field. Further going against them is the combined force of Ronaldo and Rooney, should they launch a full-fledged attack they will find themselves vulnerable to a counter attack.

Soccer Odds

Team: Manchester United

Spread: PK -130

Moneyline: +150

Total Points: Under 2 +105

Draw: +200

The Reds met Serie A hopefuls AS Roma in the group stage this season, beating them with a conservative 1-0 score on home turf in the Old Trafford—thanks to a goal from Wayne Rooney. Although United did not advance into the quarterfinals with an imperious show over Lyon (2-1 on aggregate courtesy of a late Carlos Tevez equalizer in France to secure the first leg draw and with Ronaldo scoring the lone goal at home in the second leg), they are in a good position coming into this match with two recent wins over Liverpool and Aston Villa. They have the added advantage of playing their first leg away.

Betting Verdict: With the advantage of playing away first, United must take the initiative to secure the opportunity. A draw would be helpful, a win even better. Last year, Roma beat them 3-2 in Italy, before they stunned the Italian side at home 7-1. It will be tough to defeat the Italians at home, but as they are minus Totti and Juan is doubtful after he missed the clash with Cagliari, they could be vulnerable. The Reds, who have more depth, particularly in the midfield, will need to score an away goal, which will go a long way to help them secure the second leg.

Playing for the draw may be the best strategy; but I like Manchester United’s odd s to win this match.

Soccer Free Picks:

Future Picks: Manchester United -240

Money Line Pick: Manchester to win at +150

Over/Under: Over 2 goals

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Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker Room.