Champions League Group of 16 Draw

The stage is set for the Champions League Group of 16 competition, which will be played as a knock out.  Teams will play an away and home match during the periods 14-22 February 2012 and 6-14 March 2012. 

Bayern Muenchen should be able to get beyond the Group of 16 with its fortunate draw of FC Basel.  The operative word is "if" though.  After all FC Basel knocked Manchester United out of the competition.  Bayern will have to remain focused, even though they emerged the winner against Basel in the qualification round 3-0 and 2-1. 

Bayer Leverkusen drew FC Barcelona and Leverkusen's fans will see stars like Messi and Xavi and Iniesta.  David Villa will be out with an injury.   Barca is the clear overwhelming favourite.  Regardless, the games need to be played and surprises are always possible. 

Chelsea drew Napoli and all bets are off in that competition, while Arsenal meets AC Milan.   CKSA Moscow drew the other power house Real Madrid and Marseilles is matched with Inter Milan.

The Matches for the Group of 16:

FC Basel vs Bayern Muenchen

Bayer Leverkusen vs FC Barcelona

Olympic Lyon vs APOEL Nicosia

SSC Napoli vs Chelsea

AC Milan vs Arsenal

CSKA Moscow vs Real Madrid

Zenit St. Petersburg vs Benefica Lisbon

Olympique Marseilles vs Inter Milan