Thoughts for Thursday

By Roger Gonzalez

A rundown of notable links, topics and TV suggestions for Thursday, March 13.

Devin Pleuler of MLSsoccer.com has written an interesting, in-depth analytics article on possession in MLS, and what the trends mean.

Meanwhile, the Seattle Sounders are bringing in another star: Nigerian international Obafemi Martins.

The speedy striker was once one of the most sought-after players in Europe and has gone to some lengths to engineer his departure from his current club, Spanish Primera side Levante. He wrote on his Twitter feed that he is coming to Seattle — I bet Sounders owner/investor Drew Carey is happy.

The real on-air gem of the week was AC Milan and FC Barcelona, who battled in Barcelona’s Estadio Camp Nou in their second-leg UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match on Tuesday. With Barcelona needing a big win to overcome Milan’s 2-0 first-leg lead and advance to the quarterfinals, Lionel Messi came through with a stunning double.

On Wednesday, Bayern Munich rode their 3-1 first-leg advantage over Arsenal to book a spot in the quarterfinals despite the London club’s 2-0 road win in Munich.

Is Manassas, Va. native and James Madison University grad C.J. Sapong ready for a starting role? MLSSoccer.com writes about CJ Sapong’s strong substitute performances this season and if he is ready for the limelight.

What To Watch

Inter Milan have felt the wrath of Tottenham’s Gareth Bale before. Now with a 3-0 deficit in the Europa League knockout stage, can the Italians battle back at home? Fox Soccer will have the action at 2 p.m. ET Thursday. Check out all TV listings for this weekend.