Champions League 
/ James Eastham / 03 May 2011 / Leave a Comment 
Wayne Rooney celebrates after scoring against Schalke in the first leg in Germany last week
"Half of Man Utd's 26 fixtures in all competitions at Old Trafford, including three of five in this competition, have had under 2.5 goals. That gives you a touch of value about the [2.14] on unders."
This tie may appear a foregone conclusion, but some excellent betting opportunities will still be available on Wednesday night, writes James Eastham.
Introduction
Manchester United go into the game without serious injury problems. Michael Owen may be handed a rare start, with Ryan Giggs expected to be rested.
Schalke centre-back Benedikt Howedes returns to the squad after missing the last three games although is not certain to start.
Match Odds
I'm always reluctant to back sides when they don't need to win, as is the case with United here: they can afford to draw or even lose by one goal and still qualify for the final. It's worth noting the last two sides to win Champions League semi-final first legs away from home - Barcelona in 2006, and Real Madrid in 2002 - both failed to win the return fixtures.
Yet the gulf in class between United and Schalke in the first meeting last week, plus United's remarkable unbeaten home record this season (W23-D3-L0), suggests the hosts should win in 90 minutes. The price of [1.48] on United will be too short for most, but there are no reasons to support either Schalke [8.6] or the draw [4.8].
Under / Over 2.5 goals
United still have a reputation for playing open, attacking football and recording high-scoring victories in home games, but this season's stats don't bear that out. Half of their 26 fixtures in all competitions at Old Trafford, including three of five in this competition, have had under 2.5 goals. That gives you a touch of value about the [2.14] on unders, with overs an unappealing [1.85].
United to win to nil
While Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs deservedly hogged the headlines following their performances in the 2-0 first-leg win last week, it is United's defence that has provided the foundations for their run to the brink of the final. They have kept clean sheets in eight of 11 matches in the competition so far, which is testament not only to the brilliance of Edwin van der Sar but also the depth of talent in front of him, with United using no fewer than nine players in their starting backs fours in those games.
If you think United will win but the [1.48] is too short, United winning to nil is a viable alternative, especially as the stats are in your favour: 14 of United's 23 home wins, and 15 of their 26 home fixtures overall, have seen United keeping a clean sheet.
Both Teams not to Score
Backing both teams not to score an alternative to the selection above. This way, you cover not only United winning without conceding a goal, but also the possibility of a 0-0 final scoreline, which is worth having on your side considering United don't need to win the game. The price of [1.92] look excellent value based on United's home stats in all competitions and home and away stats in this competition. Sir Alex Ferguson's side have kept a clean sheet in 15 of 26 fixtures at Old Trafford and eight of 11 games in this competition. On both counts, the figures suggest [1.92] is too big.
Top Stat: United are unbeaten in 26 matches at Old Trafford this season.
Best Bet: United to win to nil @ [2.46].
Other Recommended Bet: Under 2.5 goals @ [2.14].
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