I wrote about the special intensity and atmosphere at playoff games earlier. There is just something special about the all or nothing outcomes of these games that make them such a pressure game that isn't replicated in cup finals.
I am writing this on Friday night, so it is before the Champions League final and playoff game between Blackpool and Cardiff this weekend. Living here in the U.S. we will get the Champions League game on TV but not the Blackpool v Cardiff game.
I am probably in the minority here, but if I had to make a choice, I would prefer to watch the Blackpool v Cardiff game over the Champions League final. It wouldn't even be a close decision. It might be closer if there was an English team in the Champions League final and it would be totally different if my home town team was in the Champions League (but it looks like being another year or two before Sheffield United get there).
If you are lucky enough to have both games on TV, just give some thought to the tension and/or how much you enjoy the game. Don't just fall into the trap of thinking that the Champions League final will be better because the quality of players are better.
Let me know what you think. And other than Cardiff or Blackpool fans, I would like to hear what you think. Am I crazy or do I have a point?
