Champions League Debutants Aspire For Success

There are some unfamiliar names in the elite football tournament in Europe this season, but the UEFA Champions League also has its usual big names. Teams like champions Barcelona, last season’s losing finalists Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Arsenal are all once again gracing the tournament’s big stage. But there are also relative unknowns both in Europe and in their own countries that will be having their say during the proceedings, such as Debreceni, FK Rubin Kazan, Unirea Urzeceni and even German Bundesliga champions VfL Wolfsburg, who are making their bow. While most are not giving these teams much of a chance of making it past the initial group stages, the sport is no stranger to surprises every season. It might be difficult to figure out which team would have the greatest impact but very often it can be the most unsuspecting of the lot that would leave many fans and critics with gaping jaws.

There are also intermediate teams that will make their bid for European glory. Do not forget about Italy’s Fiorentina, who went all the way to the UEFA Cup final a few seasons ago only to lose out in heartbreaking fashion. They have been grouped together with the glamourous Liverpool of England and will cast envious glances at another team that they will fight over qualification places with - Lyon. Another interesting side that might factor in the success stakes, if they manage to rediscover their form, would be the Dutch team AZ Alkmaar. These will be highlight teams that will be featured on UEFA Champions League live streaming shows, but at the end of the day, they would only be part of the reels that make the rounds. It is hard to imagine them being atop the winners’ podium, given the lack of comparative experience and of quality playing personnel. If these can be bridged in the future, the realisation of a greater level playing field could be realised.