What we’re thinking, what we’re watching, what’s coming on the blog today and the RASNoD (Random American Soccer Name of the Day). Setting up your day in soccer …
Birthdays of note: Did David Beckham dedicate his splashy goal from Saturday night to his adoring wife as an early B-Day present? Let’s hope so; otherwise, there’s gonna be you-know-what to pay. Victoria Beckham, the designer and former signer, turns 38 today.
Big Important story of the day: The Champions League semifinals begin today with Real Madrid up first against Bayern Munich from the Allianz Arena in Germany (2:45 p.m. ET, Fox Soccer Channel). Bayern has the offensive muscle, but does it have the defense to cope with Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid? If the German giants can get past Spain’s royal side, Bayern hosts the Champions League final, a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Ahead on the blog today*: ProSoccerTalk MLS rankings, plus plenty on today’s Champions League semifinal.
RASNoD (Random American Soccer Name of the Day): Bob Gansler
Twitter daps: Bolton and U.S. national team midfielder Stuart Holden (@stuholden): “For me, @clint_dempsey needs to be on Player of the Year shortlist ! 16 goals as midfielder for mid table team?”
PST background noise while blogging today: Loop of the Champions League theme. Can’t wait.
*Always subject to change; you know how it is –