They certainly are in the balance and the second leg of these knockout football games should make compelling viewing.
The betting odds suggested two close encounters were in prospect and, realistically, any of the four sides could claim to be in the driving seat for the return matches in a fortnight’s time.
Sevilla 0-0 Manchester United
In the immediate aftermath of the final whistle, it was quite staggering to read how many fans of English teams were critical of Man Utd.
A 0-0 draw at Sevilla may yet prove not enough as an away goal would have been useful.
But a draw and a clean sheet at the Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan against arguably the fourth best team in Spain is a decent result.
Perhaps, some rival supporters are concerned how serial trophy winner Jose Mourinho is gearing up this United side?
The stellar display of goalkeeper David de Gea on his return to Spain, including a brilliant point-blank save to deny Luis Muriel, was the main talking point.
And to keep out Sevilla on home soil—the first time they have not scored in a home Champions League match (this was their 19th in the competition)—spoke of a job well done.
Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 AS Roma
The goal that won the first leg tie was simply stunning.
A Brazilian plying his trade in Ukraine with a very un-Brazilian like name of Fred.
His free-kick was the final word on a bitterly cold night in Kharkiv where his compatriots inspired a turnaround and a slender lead to take to the Italian capital.
The young talent of Cengiz Under had given Roma what could be a crucial away goal and a half-time lead, but that was quickly pegged back through Facundo Ferreyra, once of Newcastle, paving the way for Fred’s intervention.
It means Shakhtar have won three knockout games in their Champions League history to date—all against Roma!
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