Champions League Update

The first two teams are through to the Champions League Quarterfinals. Barcelona benefited from a controversial second yellow card to Arsenal's Robin Van Persie, getting a pair of second half goals after his dismissal and defeated the Gunners 3-1 to win the series by an aggregate score of 4-3. Lionel Messi scored a pair of goals and Xavi scored one in between to move the Spanish champions to the Round of 8. Arsenal's streak without bringing home any hardware continues in what has been a frustrating couple of weeks for the English side. Barcelona outshot Arsenal 20 to 0 in this one with Arsenal's loan goal being scored when Barcelona defender Sergio Busquets headed a cross past his own goalie.

Photo Courtesy: zimbio.com

In today's other game it was Ukrainian Champion Shakhtar Donetsk blowing out AS Roma 3-0. Already leading the aggregate by a score of 3-2, the Ukrainians got on the board first in this one on a goal by Tomas Hubschman. Roma had a chance to tie on a penalty kick, but Marco Borriello's shot was saved. Less than 15 minutes later, defender Philippe Mexes was sent off and any hopes of Roma advancing left with him. Willian and Eduardo tacked on goals in the second half as Shakhtar advanced to the Champions League Quarterfinals for the first time in their history.

Photo Courtesy: espn.com

Tomorrow two more teams will punch their tickets to the quarterfinals as Schalke 04 hosts Valencia (1-1) and Tottenham Hotspur hosts AC Milan (1-0).