the CL "Lottery" 949

I think we agree about more than we disagree, and you are correct....we have done this to rest.....almost. But I think you overlook the basis of the suggestion about the lottery aspect. Nobody but an idiot would suggest the CL is a complete lottery, or the FA cup ( I might even admit the word is a bit of an exaggeration) but there are only two main types of comp, league or elimination, with or without a partial league.

One is as close to the perfect test as we can get, the other leads to chancy results, and the undeniable luck of the draw at all stages , which does not suggest that only lucky sides win it. The interest of the draw, "who have we got"? really confirms how much part this chance element plays in any teams prospects.

I don't knock the competition because of this ( although it could be better) because it is a part of all cup contests which makes them so exciting.

Even though the cream tends to rise, and one of the better side will most often win this title, we might remember that even the best sides can benefit from a stiff or easier draw which helps to dictate how far they get and what major rivals get dumped en route.

If the bookies have got it right, the meeting of Barca and Chelsea ( the first two favs) at this stage is no bad news for the others. Isn't that exactly what the lottery suggestion implies.....nothing more?

Thanks for your thoughts. A welcome change.

LC