Football Champions

The Argentine International EDUARDO SALVIO has never found a place,  or himself as a player at ATLETICO DE MADRID. Perhaps its because he arrived too young from Argentine Football or simply because he was not given the chance & playing time to show his true qualities.The 22 year old player was given on loan to BENFICA back in season 2010/2011 & was a star of Portuguese Football, which lead to

News coming out of Portugal ( via the paper "A Bola" ) is that REAL MADRID has returned to put its "signing eyes" on BENFICA 23 year old Belgium midfielder AXEL WITSEL. They go further & announce that negotiations are advanced & that the Spanish Football Club has put on the table a cool 40M€.



Witsel


However, lets all hold our horses. The story coincides right at the moment when the Real

Clint Dempsey's super goal (click link for YouTube video) put Fulham FC past Juventus in the return leg of their round of 16 Europa League matchup yesterday. From an American point of view, the dramatic goal re-establishes Dempsey as a first rate star after a lengthy break from injury. It also sheds any remaining doubt on whether he will be ready for the World Cup in June. He will be ready and England, whom the U.S. face June 12, should be afraid, very afraid. But with the European club campaign now in high season, these are all secondary concerns at this point.

The Juventus match-up will likely turn out to be the last real continental challenge Fulham get for some time due to the gift Roy Hodgson's side today received from the Union of European Footballers Associations (UEFA). The gift is a spot in the Europa League final, May 12 in Hamburg, Germany, where Cottagers will likely face Benfica Lisbon (if the latest Soccer Source Top 25 is any guide).

All Fulham need to do in return is defeat a pair of mediocre clubs in the quarterfinals and semis. But this task is so easy, all that can be said at this point is this: The only way Fulham will not play in the Europa League final is if they beat themselves.

I exaggerate somewhat, but not much. Let's take a look at Fulham's first opponent for the quarterfinals, VfL Wolfsburg. Yes, the "Wolves" are defending Bundesliga champions and were in our top 25 at the start of the season. But this is a club that sits eighth in the German Bundesliga, which is an extremely top-heavy (and frankly somewhat mediocre, at least at this point) league. They did end up in a tough Champions League group with Man United, CSKA Moscow and Besiktas Istanbul and to their credit didn't finish last. But in the first round of the Europa League elimination draw they lucked out with Villareal, who are having an absolutely horrible season. And their defeat of Rubin Kazan, who were ranked 14th in our Top 25, probably would not have happened had it not taken place when the Russian league was barely out of preseason. This is a club (Wolfsburg) that has this season lost home games to the likes of Cologne and Nurnberg--as well as to Bayern Munich, VfB Stuttgart and Man United, among others. Whatever. The point is Wolfsburg should not be a problem for Cottagers.

Next up they'll face either another German club, Hamburg SV, or Standard Liege from Belgium in the semifinals. Again: both mediocre clubs from mediocre leagues (or worse in Standard's case). Hamburg's Bundesliga campaign was not unlike Wolfsburg's, though marginally better (they sit fourth to Wolfsburg's eighth). Their European season kicked off with a 3-0 defeat to Rapid Vienna. They have a few "quality wins" to their credit, but this was against clubs (PSV Eindhoven, RSC Anderlecht) that were marginal top 25 sides at best. They'll put up a fight against Fulham (these are Germans, after all) but should not be able to advance at Cottagers' expense. Again, unless Fulham let them.

One could make the point that Fulham would be contenders for a Champions League spot in virtually any league other than the Premiership. Hodgson's team were every bit Roma's equal in the Europa League group stage, drawing the Italian side at Craven Cottage and losing at the Stadio Olimpico after a 1-0 halftime lead. Roma are third in Serie A. Fulham bested defending Europa/UEFA League champs Shakhtar Donetsk and of course defeated Man U and Liverpool earlier this season. Oh wait, everybody's been beating Liverpool this season. Well, the Man U win was impressive.

Of course once they make the final things could get a bit more difficult. Benfica are arguably the best non-Champions League club this season. The team we deem the ninth-best in the world at present is also our pick to take home the first ever Europa League trophy. Then again, with Dempsey at peak form anything is possible. Even some European silverware for the Craven Cottage trophy case.

Photo taken from Sky Sports without permission.

Welcome back! This week comes our first big shakeup of the season, as two clubs from the top half of our table were eliminated from European competition. One of these teams had very real pretensions of making a run at the final season top spot. Or so they thought. They were exposed as mere pretenders at the hands of a French club that wasn't even in the top three in its own league. But last week may have just been the first of a larger shakeup. The next few days will see four more clubs eliminated from the Champions League tourney. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Here is where things stand right now:

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 28-3-7
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 17 Valencia at home (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Barca stumbled to a 2-2 draw at Almeira a fortnight ago but rebounded with a 3-0 thrashing of Valencia (hat trick by Lionel Messi) to keep pace with Real Madrid. The two friendly rivals are even on points atop the Liga BBVA standings.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg with Stuttgart is Wednesday. The 1-1 result from the first leg was disappointing but Barca can theoretically advance with a scoreless draw at the Camp Nou on Wednesday. Not that they'll want to play for one. Also visit Saragossa Sunday.

2. Chelsea
Last ranking: 3
Record: 30-6-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7).
Commentary/recent results: Two games, two wins for Blues since the last edition of the Top 25. Not that the opponents (Stoke City and West Ham) are going to scare many teams. But the game we're all waiting, and which will likely determine Chelsea's fate, at least for the medium term, is tomorrow...
Upcoming schedule: Host Inter Milan in the return leg of their Champions League round of 16 match-up. Blues got an impressive 2-1 win in the first leg, meaning they can even lose 1-0 and still advance. Visit Blackburn Sunday.

3. Manchester United
Last ranking: 5
Record: 30-9-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31), beat then-No. 12 AC Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Since the last edition of the Top 25, Red Devils have won three games by a combined score of 8-0. Granted the 4-0 result against AC Milan may not have been a true indication of Man U's superiority given that the Italian club had to throw everything forward after a point. Still, Sir Alex' men may just be peaking at the right time. They have a two point lead over Chelsea in the Premiership, albeit with an additional game played. That, combined with the fact that Blues beat them on the field in November, leaves Man U behind the West London side. For now...
Upcoming schedule: Host Liverpool Sunday.

4. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 2
Record: 22-4-11
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri are sputtering. First the scoreless home draw against Genoa eight days ago, then Friday's 3-1 embarrassment at Catania. Put it all together and you have a team hanging on to first place in Serie A by the skin of their teeth (a solitary point over AC Milan)
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Stamford Bridge is tomorrow. Win by enough to advance and all is forgiven. But that's a tough task.

5. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 7
Record: 24-4-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: Louis van Gaal's club were able to protect their two point lead atop the Bundesliga table and advanced into the quarterfinals of the Champions League after a topsy-turvy game at Fiorentina.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Frankfurt Saturday.

6. Arsenal
Last ranking: 8
Record: 27-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6), defeated then-No. 13 Porto in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Gunners are looking more and more like real, honest-to-goodness title contenders. Despite missing arguably their best player they had little problem dismantling Porto in the return leg of their Champions League match-up. Saturday they got a last minute goal from Nicklas Bendtner to defeat Hull City.
Upcoming schedule: Host West Ham Saturday. Gunners have an easy Premiership schedule the rest of the way; other than a match at White Hart Lane on April 10, only Man City (April 24) and Fulham (May 9) should be potential stumbling blocks. And both those games are home. Would it be crazy to call Arsenal the favorites to win the Premiership at this stage? No. But it wouldn't necessarily be accurate either.

7. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 6
Record: 27-7-6
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13).
Commentary/recent results: Les Girondins are in a bit of a slump, with two draws and a loss since we last met. Still, they remain first in Ligue Un, albeit equal on points with Montpellier (the surprising promoted club whom they drew 1-1 on March 7) but with a game in hand. That, along with their advantageous spot in their Champions League match-up with Olympiakos (they take a 1-0 lead into the home leg) allow Bordeaux to maintain a top 10 spot in our rankings.
Upcoming schedule: The aforementioned return leg with Olympiakos is Wednesday. Fourth-placed Lille pay a visit Sunday. A big week, in other words.

8. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: 11
Record: 23-8-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13), beat then-No. 4 Real Madrid in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: There are two reasons l'OL didn't move up higher. First, they have struggled in Ligue Un recently, with two draws in their last matches. That leaves Lyon fifth in the French league. Second, the team they dropped from the Champions League may not be very good (sure they have great players; but are they a great team?) It is looking like this might just be a weird off year for the Spanish league.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Marseille Sunday.

9. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 10
Record: 24-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: The good news is Benfica are looking like the team to beat in Portugal's Liga Sagres. After four straight wins in the league they have clawed out a three-point lead. The bad news is they may very well exit from European competition after a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Olympique Marseille. But we don't factor those match-ups into the standings until both legs are completed. So for now, Benfica are a top 10 team.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Marseille's Velodrome for the return leg in their Europa League match-up. Host second-placed Sporting Braga Sunday. That may just decide the Portuguese title.

10. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 4
Record: 24-6-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12), beat then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (3-2, March 7) lost to then-No. 11 Olympique Lyon in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: It's all over for Real. Things started so well last week too. First they came from two goals down to defeat Sevilla and then they got an early goal in the return leg with Lyon. But it was not to be. We discussed this matter at length last week; no need to return to it now. Suffice it to say Real will probably only see the top five again if they win the Spanish league.
Upcoming schedule: Host Sporting Gijon Saturday. Look for the April 11 match with Barca to settle the Spanish liga.

11. Sevilla
Last ranking: 9
Record: 21-6-5
Results of note: Beat then No. 21 Unirea Urziceni in Champions League group stage at home (2-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 24 Glasgow Rangers in Champions League group stage (4-1, Sept. 30), defeated then-No. 1 Real Madrid at home (2-1, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 1 Barcelona in Copa del Rey, lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 13 Valencia at home (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 4 Real Madrid (3-2, March 7).
Commentary/recent results: Don't look now but los palanganas have not won a match since Feb. 20. After the meltdown at the Bernabeu they struggled to a 1-1 draw against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday. That leaves Sevilla fourth, only one point ahead of fifth-placed Mallorca.
Upcoming schedule: Host CSKA Moscow tomorrow for a chance to move into the Champions League quarterfinals. A scoreless draw will see them through. Also visit Espanyol Barcelona, Sunday.

12. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 14
Record: 23-6-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian champs have won both domestic games they've played in that country's young season, but face a tough task in the Europa League. They played VfL Wolfsburg to a disappointing 1-1 home draw in the first leg of their round of 16 matchup.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Wolfsburg is what we're all watching. Win (or draw by two goals or more) and they keep their lofty perch in the top 25. Lose and...

13. AC Milan
Last ranking: 12
Record: 20-8-10
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), drew at then-No. 15 AS Roma (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: It's been an interesting fortnight for the rossoneri. First you had the utter bore of a scoreless draw at Roma on March 6, then the beatdown at Old Trafford, followed by a spirited victory over Chievo Verona that puts Leonardo's side within one point of leaders Inter. What gives? Who knows, but the Man United match made clear this is not a top five club. Probably not a top 10 either.
Upcoming schedule: Host Napoli Sunday.

14. Porto
Last ranking: 13
Record: 22-7-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20), lost against then-No. 8 Arsenal in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The Dragoes were unable to maintain their slim lead over Arsenal but rebounded to defeat Academica de Coimbra in a Liga Sagres match yesterday. It may be too late to make a move there; Porto sit a distant third, 11 points behind leaders Benfica with just seven matchdays remaining.
Upcoming schedule: The first leg of their Portuguese cup semifinal matchup against Rio Ave Vila do Conde. Don't ask me how these Portuguese clubs got their names. Also visit Belenenses Sunday.

15. Panathinaikos
Last ranking: 23
Record: 28-6-3
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier with then-No. 17 Atletico Madrid (5-2 on aggregate), lost at home to then-No. 18 Galatasaray in Europa League group play (1-0, Sept. 17), lost at then-No. 19 Olympiakos (2-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 9 AS Roma in Europa League round of 32 (6-4 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: Panathinaikos continued their winning ways to establish a five point lead atop the Greek Super League standings. Unfortunately there was also the little matter of a 3-1 home defeat to Standard Liege in the first leg of their Europa League match-up. But until both legs are played we don't factor this into our rankings.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg at Liege goes down Thursday. If that wasn't tough enough they also face Olympiakos on Sunday.

16. AS Roma
Last ranking: 15
Record: 22-7-9
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8), drew then-No. 12 AC Milan at home (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: The good news is Roma's unbeaten streak in Serie A continues. They last lost against an Italian club on Oct. 28, if you can believe that. The bad news is they are starting to draw too many matches they should be winning. Case in point: yesterday's 3-3 at Livorno. Roma had a golden opportunity to make up ground on the leaders from Milan. Instead they sit six points behind Inter and five behind AC. But their Champions League spot looks secure, with seven points separating them from fourth-placed Palermo.
Upcoming schedule: Host Udinese (the last Italian team that defeated them) Sunday.

17. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 16
Record: 14-2-11
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: It took a little while, but Leverkusen finally lost their first Bundesliga match of the season at Nurnberg on March 7. But they rebounded to defeat fellow title aspirants Hamburg SV by 4-2 yesterday. Still, Bayer are now third, one point behind Schalke 04 and three behind leaders Bayern Munich.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Borussia Dortmund Saturday. A clash with Bayern Munich looms April 10.

18. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 18
Record: 19-7-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29).
Commentary/recent results: It's been a tough fortnight for Olympiakos, who lost one and drew one in Greek league play
Upcoming schedule: The Champions League return leg at Bordeaux is Wednesday. Do Olympiakos have a chance? They play these games for a reason so we'll have to wait and see. Also visit Panathinaikos Sunday for their last, best chance at catching the Athens side, whom they trail by seven points at the time of this writing.

19. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 20
Record: 22-9-9
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17).
Commentary/recent results: Three straight draws for l'OM. Of course one of these, at Benfica Lisbon leaves them in a good position to advance in the Europa League. They may sit sixth in Ligue Un, but that's just three points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host the return leg with Benfica Thursday. Then host Olympique Lyon. Yikes.

20. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 19
Record: 17-4-4
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Dynamo drew one and won one in Ukrainian league action. Thanks to the first result, they are now even on points with Shakhtar Donetsk.
Upcoming schedule: It's just domestic action the rest of the way, so Dynamo will have to play their cards right to keep their spot in the Top 25. Their next match against Shakhtar isn't until May 5, the penultimate match day.

21.OSC Lille
Last ranking: 22
Record: 20-11-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 7 Girondins Bordeaux at home (2-0, Nov. 8), lost at then-No. 14 Valencia (3-1, Dec. 2), beat then-No. 18 Olympique Lyon (4-3, Dec. 6), lost at then-No. 23 Olympique Marseille in cup tie (2-1, Jan. 27), beat then-No. 21 Fenerbahce Istanbul in Europa League (3-2 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: L'OSC surprised everybody but us with their 1-0 home leg victory over Liverpool, which puts them in a good position to advance to the next round of the Europa League. In France they sit fourth but just two points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: The aforementioned return match at Anfield is on Thursday. Visit Bordeaux Sunday with a chance to move into first place in Ligue Un. It could be a massive week for Lille.

22. Valencia
Last ranking: 17
Record: 19-7-10
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos have come undone a bit. Losing at Barcelona is no crime in itself, but we were hoping for them to keep it a bit closer than 3-0. More importantly there was the little matter of a 1-1 home draw with Werder Bremen in the first leg of their Europa League match-up...
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bremen Thursday needing a win or a draw of 2-2 or higher to advance. If they blow it they're out of the top 25, obviously. They almost got pulled this week, in fact.

23. RSC Anderlecht
Last ranking: 21
Record: 28-7-5
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier against Olympique Lyon, drew Ajax Amsterdam at home in Europa League group stage (1-1, Oct. 1).
Commentary/recent results: Anderlecht wrapped up the Jupiler League with a pair of 2-0 wins over the last fortnight. There was unfortunately also the little matter of the first leg of their Europa League match-up with Hamburg SV. The Belgian side lost the first leg in Hamburg by 3-1.
Upcoming schedule: The return leg against HSV is Thursday. That's all we're really concerned with at this point.

24. Flamengo
Last ranking: -
Record: 12-1-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to Botafogo in the Taca Guanabara semifinals (2-1, Feb. 17).
Commentary/recent results: After an undefeated Taca Guanabara campaign, Flamengo were upset in the semifinals by Botafogo, who went on to win the final as well. They have since gone on to a perfect start in the Taca Rio and more importantly the Copa Libertadores, where they just notched a 3-1 victory at Caracas FC on Thursday. They previously defeated Chile's Universidad Catolica in the first matchday.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Universidad de Chile in the next Libertadores matchday. Then have a chance to avenge the loss to Botafogo on Sunday.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

25. Chivas de Guadelajara
Last ranking: -
Record: 8-1-1*
Results of note:
Commentary/recent results: Though Chivas dropped their first points of the Mexican Clausura campaign over the last fortnight, I feel they still qualify as the 25th-best club in the world right now. But we'll see how things go from here.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Copa Libertadores participant Monterrey Sunday. Speaking of the Libertadores, Chivas will join the next round of that competition.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

Dropping Out:
PSV Eindhoven (24), after losing 4-1 to Ajax Amsterdam and dropping five points off the pace in the Dutch Eredivisie, Liverpool (25) after, well, do you really need to hear the reasons?

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Werder Bremen

Photo taken from ESPN Soccernet without permission.

We are on the precipice of a crucial period of the season in world club soccer, where the pretenders are separated from the contenders. So pay close attention to this week's rankings because they may be about to be shaken, not stirred. Remember that we only count two-leg matchups as one result, so while the latest Europa League action is factored into this ranking, the Champions League's is not--yet. As a result the top eight spots don't change much. Okay fine, they don't change at all. But look closely because the whole thing might be shaken up very soon. Plus the second tier is extremely interesting anyway. Enjoy.

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 27-3-6
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16).
Commentary/recent results: Barca have begun to struggle just a wee bit. There was the 1-1 draw at Stuttgart (which again is not taken into account here) and Saturday's hard-fought 2-1 win over Malaga, a team in the thick of a relegation battle. But there was also a 4-0 victory over Racing Santander since the last edition of the Top 25. All in all, it's enough to keep Barcelona tops. But it's getting kinda hectic.
Upcoming schedule: At Almeira, Saturday. Host Valencia Sunday, March 14. Then the return leg against Stuttgart.

2. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 2
Record: 22-3-10
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri played thrice over the last two weeks and did not lose. That's the good news. The bad news is their 2-1 win over Chelsea is unlikely to hold up in the return leg of their Champions League matchup. Plus they dropped points again in a scoreless home draw to Sampdoria. Their Serie A lead is down to four points..
Upcoming schedule: Host Genoa on Sunday, visit Catania a week from Friday. The return leg at Stamford Bridge is the following Tuesday.

3. Chelsea
Last ranking: 3
Record: 28-6-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7).
Commentary/recent results: Blues played probably their worst game of the season Saturday, losing to Manchester City 4-2 in an encounter that was overshadowed by Wayne Bridge refusing to shake John Terry's hand. Chelsea's lead over Man United is now one solitary point. It's going to be very interesting.
Upcoming schedule: Host Stoke City Saturday in FA Cup action, West Ham United a week later.

4. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 4
Record: 22-5-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12).
Commentary/recent results: The merengues are another club that can be glad we don't factor in the latest Champions League result into our rankings, because as we all know Real were soundly defeated at Olympique Lyon, though a 1-0 margin leaves plenty of opportunity for reversal. It's been a different story in the Spanish liga, with easy back-to-back victories over Villareal and Tenerife (6-2 and 5-1, respectively).
Upcoming schedule: Host Sevilla in a cracker Saturday. Will they be able to avenge the loss earlier this season? Then host the return leg v. Lyon on Wednesday, March 10.

5. Manchester United
Last ranking: 5
Record: 27-9-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Red Devils rebounded from the loss at Everton, with a pair of wins. Yesterday's over Aston Villa gives them the first piece of silverware, the Carling Cup. The first of how many? We'll just have to wait and see.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Wolves Saturday. Then host AC Milan in the return leg of their Champions League match-up. Man U won the first, 3-2 and are clearly in the driver's seat to advance to the quarterfinals.

6. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 6
Record: 27-6-4
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13).
Commentary/recent results: Les Girondins defeated Lorient 4-1 in a French cup tie and dropped Olympiakos by 1-0 in the first (away) leg of their Champions League matchup. Yesterday's game with Le Mans was canceled.
Upcoming schedule: Host Montpellier Saturday. This is a big game folks; the two sides are now equal on points atop the League Un standings. Bordeaux have two games in hand, but still.

7. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 7
Record: 22-4-8
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: The Bayern resurgence continues as Louis van Gaal's club moves into first place in the Bundesliga for (I think) the first time this season. The catalyst was a dull 1-0 victory over Hamburg SV yesterday. Bayern will take it. Their lead in the German Bundesliga is now two points over Leverkusen, which could be more had Bayern not dropped points in a 1-1 draw at Nurnberg on Feb. 20. They also take a 2-1 lead into the return leg with Fiorentina.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Cologne Saturday. The aforementioned return leg in Florence is a week from tomorrow.

8. Arsenal
Last ranking: 8
Record: 24-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6)
Commentary/recent results: Gunners booked a pair of easy Premiership victories after going down 2-1 at Porto. They defeated Sunderland on Feb. 20 and bounced back from an early deficit to beat Stoke City 3-1 on Saturday. They're suddenly back in the thick of the Premiership race.
Upcoming schedule: Host Burnley, Saturday. Then host Porto for the return leg, needing a win by either 1-0 or two goals to advance. Visit Hull City the following Saturday. Gunners have an easy Premiership schedule the rest of the way; other than a match at White Hart Lane on April 10, only Man City (April 24) and Fulham (May 9) should be potential stumbling blocks. And both those games are home.

9. Sevilla
Last ranking: 10
Record: 21-5-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 21 Unirea Urziceni in Champions League group stage at home (2-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 24 Glasgow Rangers in Champions League group stage (4-1, Sept. 30), defeated then-No. 1 Real Madrid at home (2-1, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 1 Barcelona in Copa del Rey, lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 13 Valencia at home (2-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Los palanganas played a disappointing scoreless draw with Bilbao yesterday. They previously defeated Mallorca and notched an important 1-1 away draw at CSKA Moscow in the first leg of their Champions League matchup. The Mallorca victory was massive as they have a three point edge over that team in the Liga standings. Sevilla are fourth, three points behind Valencia.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Real Madrid Saturday. Host Deportivo La Coruna a week from Sunday. The return leg with CSKA is the following Tuesday.

10. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 11
Record: 22-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: Benfica had no problems with Hertha Berlin in the Europa League, advancing easily by an aggregate score of 4-1. They also defeated Leixoes by the same score in Liga Sagres on Saturday. Their lead in the Portuguese league is one point over Sporting Braga.
Upcoming schedule: Host Pacos de Ferreira Sunday before the next stage of the Europa League ensues. Benfica host Olympique Marseille in the first leg a week from Thursday. That should be interesting.

11. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: 20
Record: 22-8-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13)
Commentary/recent results: Don't look now but l'OL has not given up a goal since Jan. 31. We had all but written off their season a few weeks ago. But now they're just two points behind co-leaders Montpellier and Bordeaux in Ligue Un and on the cusp of a major upset in the Champions League elimination round. In their last two league matches they defeated Sochaux by 4-0 and Nice by 2-0. We did say we wouldn't take the Real Madrid match into consideration until the return leg is played, but we're moving Lyon up just in case...
Upcoming schedule: Visit Boulogne Saturday followed by the all-important return leg match at the sixth-biggest soccer mecca in the world. Lyon take a 1-0 lead into that match. The way they're playing now it might just be enough. We'll see.

12. AC Milan
Last ranking: 13
Record: 19-7-9
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: The 3-2 home loss to Man United in the first leg of their Champions League matchup was unfortunate and will in all likelihood lead to Milan's exit from said tournament. But they rebounded nicely with three wins in a row in Serie A, to narrow their deficit to first-placed Inter Milan to four points. There's still everything to play for in Serie A. Of course that could be all that's left to play for as well, depending on how the Champions League return legs play out.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Roma Saturday in a crucial Serie A encounter. Then it's to Old Trafford and the return leg vs. Man United on Wednesday, March 10.

13. Porto
Last ranking: 12
Record: 21-6-3
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: The Dragoes beat up on second-placed Sporting Braga a week ago but yesterday went down 3-0 at Sporting Lisbon. The loss is significant because it leaves Porto nine points behind leaders Benfica. I don't know if they can come back from that (though they do host Benfica on the penultimate Liga Sagres matchday, May 2). There was also that little 2-1 first leg victory over Arsenal but we'll have to wait and see if that holds up.
Upcoming schedule: Host Olhanense Sunday before the trip to Emirates a week from tomorrow.

14. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 18
Record: 21-6-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian champs had no problem with Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv, winning 3-0 on aggregate to advance to the round of 16 in the Europa League.
Upcoming schedule: Face German champions VfL Wolfsburg in the next stage of the Europa League. The Russian league kicks off March 14.

15. AS Roma
Last ranking: 9
Record: 22-7-7
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8)
Commentary/recent results: We labeled Roma the hottest team in Europe a fortnight ago. That may have been true at the time, but it isn't anymore. Yes, the gialorossi kept their unbeaten streak in Serie A alive and are now in third place. But the team also exited the Europa League at the hands of Panathinaikos, who weren't even on our radar (but are now, as you'll see in a bit).
Upcoming schedule: Host AC Milan, Saturday, the team they trail by three points. First placed Inter are seven points afield. But that deficit too can still be negated. The two sides meet Mach 28 in Rome.

16. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 15
Record: 13-1-11
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: The good news is Leverkusen is still unbeaten in league play this season. The bad news is they're no longer first after a pair of disappointing draws with Werder Bremen and Cologne.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Nurnberg Sunday. Then host Hamburg SV on Sunday, March 14. A clash with Bayern Munich looms April 10.

17. Valencia
Last ranking: 16
Record: 19-6-9
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos defeated FC Bruges in the Europa League 3-1 on aggregate and beat Getafe last Monday but yesterday they came undone against Atletico Madrid, losing 4-1 in their home ground. Valencia remain third in La Liga, 15 points off the pace of Barcelona. Sevilla is four points behind them. That race has obviously run its course, but there's still everything to play for in Europe.
Upcoming schedule: Host Racing Santander a week from today. The next round of the Europa League ensues the following Thursday with Werder Bremen, at home.

18. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 17
Record: 19-6-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29).
Commentary/recent results: Olympiakos drew Ergotelis, lost at home to Bordeaux in the first leg of their Champions League matchup, before rebounding with a win over Atromitos Halkidona yesterday. They obviously have their work cut out for them in Europa, but in the Greek Super League they trail leaders Panathinaikos by just two points.
Upcoming schedule: At Iraklis Saloniki Saturday, followed by another Greek league match the following weekend. The return leg at Bordeaux is March 17.

19. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 19
Record: 16-4-3
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Dynamo won their first match of 2010, against some Ukrainian club. They maintain a two point lead atop the standings, with a game in hand over second-placed Shakhtar Donetsk.
Upcoming schedule: It's just domestic action the rest of the way, so Dynamo will have to play their cards right to keep their spot in the Top 25. Their next match against Shakhtar isn't until May 5, the penultimate match day.

20. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 23
Record: 22-9-7
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17).
Commentary/recent results: Four straight wins for l'OM, including an easy one over Copenhagen in the Europa League. They're still in the hunt for the Ligue Un title as well; just three points behind co-leaders Montpellier and Bordeaux and one behind second-placed Lyon with a game in hand on all but Bordeaux.
Upcoming schedule: Host Lorient Saturday, followed by the first leg of their next Europa League encounter, with Benfica Lisbon. That one should be interesting.

21. RSC Anderlecht
Last ranking: 22
Record: 26-7-5
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier against Olympique Lyon, drew Ajax Amsterdam at home in Europa League group stage (1-1, Oct. 1).
Commentary/recent results: Anderlecht defeated Atletic Bilbao by an impressive 5-1 on aggregate and followed this up with a 2-1 win at Roeselare, whoever that is. They now have a nine point lead in the Jupiler League with a game on hand over second-placed FC Bruges with only two matchdays remaining. Can that be true?
Upcoming schedule: Host Genk Saturday, then face Hamburg SV in what promises to be a tough Europa League Round of 16.

22.OSC Lille
Last ranking: -
Record: 19-11-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 7 Girondins Bordeaux at home (2-0, Nov. 8), lost at then-No. 14 Valencia (3-1, Dec. 2), beat then-No. 18 Olympique Lyon (4-3, Dec. 6), lost at then-No. 23 Olympique Marseille in cup tie (2-1, Jan. 27), beat then-No. 21 Fenerbahce Istanbul in Europa League (3-2 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: We have to give l'OSC credit for their victory over Fenerbahce, whom we (erroneously, it turned out) deemed the better club. But Lille lost a costly game yesterday against Auxerre and are now fifth in Ligue Un. But they're still very much alive for the title, just four points behind co-leaders Bordeaux and Montpellier.
Upcoming schedule: Play at St. Etienne Saturday. Host Liverpool a week from Thursday in what promises to be an interesting Europa League matchup. It had better be or one of the teams will exit the Top 25 probably for good.

23. Panathinaikos
Last ranking: -
Record: 26-6-3
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier with then-No. 17 Atletico Madrid (5-2 on aggregate), lost at home to then-No. 18 Galatasaray in Europa League group play (1-0, Sept. 17), lost at then-No. 19 Olympiakos (2-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 9 AS Roma in Europa League round of 32 (6-4 on aggregate).
Commentary/recent results: It's been some time coming, but we finally give Panathinaikos their due after a stirring upset of AS Roma in the Europa League. Truth is, every other time they were on the threshold of the Top 25, the lack of "quality wins" kept them out. No longer. Roma's number nine rank might have been a bit inflated but it's hard to dispute they were the best club Panathinaikos faced all season. There is also the matter of sitting in first place in the Greek Super League
Upcoming schedule: Host Levadiakos Saturday. The Europa League resumes with Standard Liege the following Thursday.

24. PSV Eindhoven
Last ranking: 14
Record: 26-2-7
Results of note: Drew at Twente (1-1, Aug. 9), defeated Ajax Amsterdam at home (4-3, Aug. 16)
Commentary/recent results: PSV were ousted by Hamburg SV in the Europa League round of 32. It was close, with HSV advancing only by virtue of the away goal rule. Unfortunately this means we'll never truly know how good this team is. They're best in Holland, obviously, but how good is that?
Upcoming schedule: Visit NAC Breda Saturday before visiting Ajax Amsterdam in a match that could decide the Eredivisie title, or at least determine if Ajax is going to have anything to do with the outcome. The Amsterdam club sit third, seven points behind PSV. Second-placed Twente are a point behind the leaders.

25. Liverpool
Last ranking: 25
Record: 17-13-7
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 4 Chelsea (2-0, Oct. 4), lost at home to then-No. 8 Olympique Lyon (2-1, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 3 Man United at home (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal (2-1, Oct. 28) in league cup, drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (1-1, Nov. 4), lost at home to then-No. 11 Arsenal in Premiership (2-1, Dec. 12), won at then-No. 20 Aston Villa (1-0, Dec. 29), lost at then-No. 8 Arsenal (1-0, Feb. 10) in Premiership.
Commentary/recent results: Reds manage to keep their top 25 spot one week after returning from a long absence. They defeated Unirea Urziceni (themselves a Top 25 club at one point) in their Europa League matchup, played a scoreless draw at Manchester City and yesterday defeated Blackburn 2-1. They're sixth in the Prem, but only one point behind fourth-placed Tottenham.
Upcoming schedule: Play at Wigan a week from Monday, followed by the first leg of what promises to be a tricky Europa League matchup with Lille. A crucial visit to Old Trafford is up March 21. Reds won the first encounter, if you'll recall...

Dropping Out:
Fenerbahce (21) after being eliminated by Lille in the Europa League, Shakhtar Donetsk (24) after being eliminated by Fulham in the Europa League.

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Chivas de Guadelajara (perfect through eight games of the Mexican Clausura, which I think is some kind of record), Sporting Lisbon (3-0 victory over Porto, eliminated Everton in Europa League), Juventus (unbeaten since Jan. 28, defeated Ajax Amsterdam in Europa League), Velez Sarsfield (5-1-2 in all competition including 2-0 in Copa Libertadores), Allianza Lima (4-1-2 in all competition including 2-0 in Copa Libertadores, with a 4-1 victory over defending champions Estudiantes)

Note: The next episode of the Top 25 will appear March 15.

Photo taken from ESPN Soccernet without permission.

Welcome back! It's been an interesting couple of weeks. Barca suddenly looked mortal yesterday, losing at Atletico Madrid. So did Chelsea, thanks to Landon Donovan and Everton a week ago, and Inter Milan, after draws to Parma and Napoli. With the leaders of the "big three" leagues all effectively treading water, would there be a shake-up in the rankings? Only one way to find out. Right here:

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 25-3-6
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16).
Commentary/recent results: Barca suffered just their third loss of the season yesterday, falling to Atletico Madrid 2-1. All goals came in the first 30 minutes. Barca had several absences on defense but these are games the best team in the world really should win even with a thin line up. And yes, we are keeping Barca in the top spot for the simple reason that they have the best record. That and the teams immediately behind didn't exactly impress either. The result of yesterday's game is significant however, because it reduces the defending champs' lead atop the Spanish liga table to a mere two points. The league race is wide open in other words. And Real Madrid happen to host the second match between the two rivals on April 11.
Upcoming schedule: Host Santander Saturday. The first leg of their UEFA Champions league Round of 16 matchup with VfB Stuttgart is in Germany Feb. 23.

2. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 3
Record: 21-3-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri played four times over the last two weeks and did not lose. But they didn't win every game either, in fact the last two (at Parma and Naples) were draws. Inter have a seven point lead in the Serie A standings. Can they afford to start dropping points like this?
Upcoming schedule: Host Sampdoria, who beat them earlier in the season, Saturday before the clash with Chelsea next Wednesday.

3. Chelsea
Last ranking: 2
Record: 27-5-6
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7).
Commentary/recent results: Blues defeated Cardiff City in the FA Cup yesterday but it's been a less than perfect fortnight for the West London side. Yes, they looked great against Arsenal the weekend before last but Everton made them look downright mid-table (that's what Landon Donovan will do for a club. Keep that in mind ahead of June 12, England fans). Chelsea's lead over Man United is now one solitary point. It's going to be very interesting.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Wolves Saturday but the game we'll be watching is next Wednesday's trip to the San Siro and Inter Milan.

4. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 5
Record: 20-5-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12).
Commentary/recent results: The merengues won a pair of 3-0 decisions since we last met. That's four wins in a row. Could Real be peaking at exactly the right time? We'll have to wait and see...
Upcoming schedule: The first leg of their Champions League matchup with Olympique Lyon is tomorrow. Host Villareal at home Sunday.

5. Manchester United
Last ranking: 4
Record: 25-8-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Red Devils played just twice in the past fortnight, defeating Pompey back on Feb. 6 but drawing Aston Villa 1-1 last Wednesday. Now things get interesting, because:
Upcoming schedule: It's off to the San Siro tomorrow for the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 matchup with AC Milan. Then another challenge, at Everton Saturday.

6. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 6
Record: 26-6-4
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13).
Commentary/recent results: Two up, two down for les Girondins since the last edition of le Top 25. They remain first in Ligue Un, but only three points ahead of surprising Montpellier (not the capital of Vermont but a city in southern France. Anyway Montpelier, Vt., is spelled differently).
Upcoming schedule: Visit Lorient Wednesday. Visit Olympiakos for their Champions League matchup Feb. 23.

7. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 7
Record: 21-4-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: The Bayern resurgence continues as Louis van Gaal's club remains perfect in 2010. They actually haven't lost since Nov. 3. And yet, first place in the Bundesliga is still shared with Leverkusen, whom they just can't seem to shake. Until they do we simply cannot advance them past Bordeaux, who owned the German club in their two Champions League matchups last fall (see above).
Upcoming schedule: Host Fiorentina in the first stage of their Champions League match-up. Visit Nurnberg Saturday. A clash with Hamburg SV follows a week later.

8. Arsenal
Last ranking: 8
Record: 22-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6)
Commentary/recent results: Arse were outclassed at the Bridge but remain just six points behind the leaders after defeating a (somewhat) resurgent Liverpool squad last Wednesday.
Upcoming schedule: Travel to Portugal for their Champions League match-up with Porto on Wednesday. Host Sunderland Saturday..

9. AS Roma
Last ranking: 13
Record: 21-6-6
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8)
Commentary/recent results: Can there be any argument about the hottest team in Europe right now? It's got to be Roma, winner of nine games in a row and an unbeaten streak of 20 (!) dating back to October. In the three years I've been keeping these charts I've never come across anything like this. Oh yeah, the gialorossi have now moved up to second, seven points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host Panathinaikos in the first leg of their Europa League match-up Thursday. Host Catania Sunday. Look toward a March 7 date with Milan and March 28 meeting with Inter (both home) to decide the scudetto.

10. Sevilla
Last ranking: 9
Record: 20-5-3
Results of note: Beat then No. 21 Unirea Urziceni in Champions League group stage at home (2-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 24 Glasgow Rangers in Champions League group stage (4-1, Sept. 30), defeated then-No. 1 Real Madrid at home (2-1, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 1 Barcelona in Copa del Rey, lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 13 Valencia at home (2-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Los palanganas got past Getafe in the Copa del Rey semifinals and followed this up with a victory over Osasuna yesterday. There was a loss to Saragossa in there as well, however. The liga race has long run its course; 16 points separate Sevilla from first-place Barcelona. But third place, and an automatic Champions League qualification is merely four points beyond them.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Mallorca Saturday followed by the first leg of their Champions League match-up with CSKA Moscow. That game is in Russia, a week from Wednesday.

11. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 11
Record: 20-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: With two wins and a draw since the last edition of the Top 25, Benfica were able to take sole possession of first place in the Portuguese league.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Hertha Berlin for what is sure to be an easy Europa League encounter.

12. Porto
Last ranking: 12
Record: 20-5-3
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20).
Commentary/recent results: The Dragoes won two and drew one over the last two weeks to keep pace with first-placed Benfica. Unfortunately, they're nine points behind the leaders and eight points behind second-placed Sporting Braga.
Upcoming schedule: Host Arsenal Wednesday. Get their chance against Sporting Braga Sunday. Then Sporting Braga a week later. If Porto are going to right their season, here's their chance.

13. AC Milan
Last ranking: 10
Record: 16-7-9
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24).
Commentary/recent results: Leonardo's men finally got off the schneid Friday, defeating Udinese 3-2 to end a four game winless streak. But they've dropped to third, nine points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host Man U tomorrow. They shouldn't have a chance in this game. But you never know...

14. PSV Eindhoven
Last ranking: 14
Record: 25-1-6
Results of note: Drew at Twente (1-1, Aug. 9).
Commentary/recent results: PSV rebounded from their first loss of the season (on Jan. 27) to win three in a row. They lead the Dutch Eredivisie by three points.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Hamburg SV for a tough Europa League match-up Thursday.

15. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 15
Record: 13-1-9
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: After a disappointing draw at Bochum, Leverkusen rebounded with a 2-1 victory over the defending champions Wolfsburg Saturday. They are first in the Bundesliga on goal difference.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bremen Saturday. No European action for these guys but look to a stretch between March 14 and April 10 that will decide the title race. During that time, Bayer face Hamburg SV (currently fourth), Borussia Dortmund (fifth), Schalke (third) and Bayern Munich (second).

16. Valencia
Last ranking: 16
Record: 17-4-9
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos beat Valladolid and drew Sporting Gijon over the last two weeks. They remain third in La Liga.
Upcoming schedule: The Europa League match-up with FC Bruges kicks off Thursday. Host Getafe Sunday.

17. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 18
Record: 18-6-5
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29).
Commentary/recent results: Olympiakos continued their winning ways, over Levadiakos and Asteras Tripolis to move within three points of first-placed Panathinaikos. Smart money says they'll catch the Athenian side by season end.
Upcoming schedule: At Ergotelis Saturday. Then host Girondins Bordeaux in an intriguing Champions League matchup. It seems the Greek club are in better form at the moment. But we'll have to wait and see what happens this weekend first.

18. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 19
Record: 20-6-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian season is over. Kazan are champions. Face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Europa League round of 32. The victor faces the winner of Wolfsburg and Villareal.
Upcoming schedule: Host the Israeli club Thursday. The Russian league doesn't start until March 14.

19. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 20
Record: 15-4-3
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Idle.
Upcoming schedule: Nothing until Feb. 27.

20. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: -
Record: 20-8-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13)
Commentary/recent results: L'OL have managed to stop their freefall in Ligue Un. They haven't lost a league match this year and have moved up to fourth place as a result, five points behind leaders Bordeaux.
Upcoming schedule: Now things get real. Or Real, as the Spanish juggernauts pay a visit to the Stade Gerland tomorrow.

21. Fenerbahce Istanbul
Last ranking: 17
Record: 22-6-3
Results of note: Beat Galatasaray (3-1, Oct. 25), beat then-No. 20 Twente (Dec. 2, 1-0).
Commentary/recent results: Fener hit a bit of a rough spot the last two weeks. They struggled to advance past Bursaspor in what appears to have been two legs of a cup tie and drew their two league matches in that span. These results knocked them out of first place in the Turkcell Super Lig, one point behind Galatasaray.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Lille in intriguing Europa League match-up Thursday.

22. RSC Anderlecht
Last ranking: 21
Record: 23-7-5
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier against Olympique Lyon, drew Ajax Amsterdam at home in Europa League group stage (1-1, Oct. 1).
Commentary/recent results: Anderlecht won the clash against second-placed FC Bruges then lost to some club named Sint Truidense VV. Their game with Charleroi was canceled Saturday, presumably due to weather.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Atletic Bilbao in an intriguing Europa League match-up Thursday.

23. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 23
Record: 19-9-7
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17).
Commentary/recent results: L'OM exited the Coupe de France at Lens last week (by the way "France" and "Lens" rhyme when pronounced correctly) but rebounded with a gutsy win at Monaco Saturday. Marseille are fifth in the French first division, one point behind fourth-placed Lyon and only two behind third-placed Lille with a game in hand over both clubs.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Copenhagen Thursday for the first leg of their Europa League match-up. Host Nancy Sunday.

24. Shakhtar Donetsk
Last ranking: 24
Record: 17-4-4
Results of note: Lost UEFA Supercup to then-No. 2 Barcelona (1-0 in overtime, Aug. 28), beat then-No. 10 Dynamo Kiev at home in domestic cup match (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at then No. 16 Dynamo Kiev (3-0, Nov. 21).
Commentary/recent results: Nothing.
Upcoming schedule: The first round of the Europa League play-off, at Craven Cottage Thursday.

25. Liverpool
Last ranking: -
Record: 15-13-6
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 4 Chelsea (2-0, Oct. 4), lost at home to then-No. 8 Olympique Lyon (2-1, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 3 Man United at home (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal (2-1, Oct. 28) in league cup, drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (1-1, Nov. 4), lost at home to then-No. 11 Arsenal in Premiership (2-1, Dec. 12), won at then-No. 20 Aston Villa (1-0, Dec. 29).
Commentary/recent results: Liverpool are back. Granted their overall record is not very impressive but Rafa Benitez' squad have fought their way back to fourth place in the Premiership with some pretty decent results these past few months. It's been a long time since we saw them here: Oct. 26 to be exact. Will they manage to stick around?
Upcoming schedule: Face fellow Champions League rejects Unirea Urziceni in the Europa League Thursday followed by a visit to Man City. A crucial visit to Old Trafford is up March 21. Reds won the first encounter, if you'll recall...

Dropping Out:
Twente (22) after losing to Ajax Amsterdam by 3-0, Corinthians (25).

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Chivas de Guadelajara (perfect through five games of the Mexican Clausura), Ajax Amsterdam (defeated Twente, sit third in Eredivisie, undefeated in 2010).

Please note: The Top 25 will next appear March 1. So don't go looking for it in a week and come crying to me. You've been warned.

Photo taken from Goal.com without permission.