Aberdeen vs. København

On Sky

All or nothing. Win or leave.

Aberdeen must win to progress to the round of 32 of the UEFA Cup.

Vital Quotes:

BBC Sport:

‘This is far bigger than that cup final with Dunfermline.’

‘I watched a few video tapes last night, when they (Copenhagen) played at Celtic Park, and when they played in Moscow. There were no surprises – they were very, very strong.’ – Aberdeen manager Jimmy Calderwood.

‘It will be the most important game of my career,’ said Aberdeen centre back Zander Diamond, ‘If you would have told me at the beginning of the tournament that we would only need a win to progress to the last 32 we would’ve taken it. We’re at home, it’s a sell-out and all the boys are really looking forward to it. Hopefully we can perform on the night.’

Ex-Aberdeen manager Ebbe Skovdahl popped up with a few words of support.

‘I think it is about 50-50 – Copenhagen have more international experience as they are in Europe every year, so they are very strong. If he is fit then Jesper Gronkjaer will be a danger to Aberdeen. But Copenhagen haven’t been as good as they were last season and they will expect severe pressure from Aberdeen.’

‘There is no way that Aberdeen will be underestimated and I can honestly say that I will be supporting them in the tie.’

Aberdeen Team News:

Jeffrey De Visscher, Derek Young, Jackie McNamara and Darren Mackie are all absent.

Jamie Smith returns.

Player to watch: Lee Miller

Big Lee’s been digging out goals here, there and everywhere recently. Joint 4th top goalscorer in the SPL this season with 6 goals in 17 appearances, he’ll be watched closely by the visiting defence.

Copenhagen Team News:

Copenhagen have no injury worries ahead of the clash.

Player to watch: Jesper Gronkjaer

Former Chelsea player. Gronkjaer returns from almost a month on the sidelines. He’s not fully fit but that shouldn’t make Aberdeen worry about him any less.

Match Facts & Stats

Aberdeen have never scored against a Danish team.

Michael Hart is one booking away from a one match suspension.

Jamie Smith celebrates his birthday today.

Ref Watch:

The referee’s record is not encouraging.

Lucilio Cardosa Cortez Batista is well known for giving out many a yellow card in games. In Euro 2004 he dished out 20 in 2 and in the World Cup awarded 18 in 2. Let’s just hope he doesn’t spoil the game and doesn’t let it flow enough.

Match Prediction:

5-0 Dons.

COOOOOME OOOON EEEEWE REEEEEDS!

Next Fixtures:

Aberdeen vs. Rangers.

23.12.07