Everton Hopes Buried!

The draw for the Champions League final qualifying round was just made. Everton's hope of a non-Liverpool clash was fulfilled but I am sure they are not going to reach the main draw 'cos they face Spanish team Villareal, who btw, was amazing last season in La Liga.

Villareal has a good squad with players like Riquelme, Forlan (ex-ManUtd player), Sorin and have the capability to topple even a top team. Everton will be cursing their luck for being drawn against them.

Also riding their luck are defending Champions Liverpool and ManUtd, who would have been pleased they didn't get drawn against a Spanish or Italian team. Inter Milan face a tricky situation...they play Ukrainian Champions Shakthar Donestk. (i guess they are champions and i hear they are much similar to Chelsea in their financial might, though not equal)

Real Betis against Monaco is the pick of the matches as is Everton against Villareal. Betis finished fourth in La Liga last season and Monaco third in the French league. After the shocking 5-0 away loss of ex-Scottish Champions Celtic to an unknown Slovakian team, I guess no top team will be complacent even if they are to face a lowly side. The first leg takes place on August 10/11 and the return leg two weeks later. More about the Champions League later!