Soccer: Could Sevilla spring a surprise?

Sevilla will be in the second round draw for the Champions League - and there will not be many teams lining up to face them.

The Spaniards' fearless, attacking approach makes them dangerous opponents and they eased through the group stage. Admittedly, Group G, containing Rangers, Unirea Urziceni and Stuttgart, did not possess many demons but Sevilla still made a big impression.

With Luis Fabiano and Freddie Kanoute up front, they possess the firepower to hurt even the best defences. And Jesus Navas and Adriano offer good supply to the strikers. Sevilla play with heart and tireless energy to go with an abundance of attacking intent.

The second round will be a tougher proposition, though. Much will depend on the draw again. There will certainly be a batch of stronger sides in the second round – but also a fair few weaker teams. Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid are obvious ones to avoid while AC Milan and Inter are dangerous on their day. And there are still some question marks over how the Sevilla defence would hold up on a trip to Stamford Bridge or Old Trafford.

But there will be some surprise qualifiers, that is for sure. Liverpool are out while only one of Bayern Munich and Juventus can progress. There could well be an intriguing mix of clubs when the knockout rounds kick off. And Sevilla cannot be discounted.

The Spaniards would love to shake up the established pecking order and it would take a brave man to bet against them reaching the last eight.