The Chilean in full flow is an unstoppable juggernaut, but Adam Digby writes that it has rarely been seen lately. Is that about to change?
There will be more than a hint of nostalgia for fans of Italian football this week, with clubs from the peninsula embroiled in European action on a scale that recalls the halcyon days of Serie A. While the league may have been surpassed both on and off the field by the top divisions in England, Germany and Spain, none of those nations can boast six clubs competing in the two UEFA competitions this week.
The likes of Napoli, Roma and Fiorentina have impressed already, with Torino’s unexpected triumph over Athletic Club in Bilbao two weeks ago a truly remarkable accomplishment.
While the improved performances in the Europa League have been rightly lauded, the nod to Calcio’s seemingly lost lustre may reach its zenith as the Champions League anthem plays at the Westfalenstadion later this week. When the now famous tune rings out at one of the most vociferous stadiums on the continent, the television cameras will pan the line-ups of Borussia Dortmund – finalists as recently as two years ago – and Juventus, a club intent on recapturing their own status as a genuine European giant.
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