ATL + News Roundup: UCL Action, Liverpool Confidence, and Johnson's Contract Clause

Manchester United Claw Their Way to 1-1 Draw Against Bayern Munich:

United did their best Stoke City impression and escaped Old Trafford with a 1-1 draw after Bastian Schweinsteiger canceled out Nemanja Vidic's goal with an equalizing volley off his left foot. Bayern could not create many clear cut chances despite having 74% possession, and it was actually Danny Welbeck who had the best opportunity of the match when he was put in on goal by a defensive slip, only to unconvincingly chip it right at Manuel Neuer. Neither manager should feel too agitated by the result, but by simply remaining within shouting distance heading to the second leg, David Moyes is likely the happier of the two bosses.

Atletico Madrid Score Valuable Away Goal at Camp Nou:

Diego hit a cracking long shot to help Atletico to a 1-1 draw, giving them a good chance of advancing to the next round. Neymar scored for Barcelona, latching onto a superb pass from Iniesta.

Here's the aforementioned firecracker:

Carra Confident In Liverpool's Title Challenge:

Jamie Carragher expressed his views on the title race, saying, "I think Liverpool will win it now." He went on to give some more insights about the nature of the race, and all of that can be read here. There must be a part of him that wishes he'd waited a little longer to hang up the boots.

Sterling Also Confident, Describes Home Advantage:

As usual, Raheem Sterling expressed confidence in himself and his team. According to an article on ESPN FC, he said about the City and Chelsea games, "With the remaining games, it is going to be difficult with those two coming here. But we'll take it as it comes as we really fancy ourselves against anyone coming here. We will take it step by step and do the business when they come." What was more interesting was this tidbit at the end of the article: "It was disappointing being on the bench for two games but I knew I had to be ready if I was called back," Sterling said. "I am grateful to the manager for having the belief to put me in for a big game and the team got the win." I know he's 19 and wants to play every minute of every match, but he needs to realize that Rodgers used him as a sub in those two games for tactical reasons, not because of any dip in performance. At least he was prepared and hungry to return to the starting eleven, and his display against Tottenham was phenomenal.

Liverpool May Owe Portsmouth Cash With EPL Title Win:

According to BBC Sport, there's a clause from Glen Johnson's 2009 transfer that makes Liverpool pay Portsmouth £1m if they win the title. Portsmouth are completely broke and in League Two, so they'll surely be amongst our most strident supporters in the coming weeks.