This one started off as a small, off hand rumor yesterday but seems to be gaining some steam. There are reports out of Spain that Russian mobsters paid off Bayern Munich players in its 2007-08 semifinals loss to Zenit St. Petersburg. The Germans denied the accusations earlier this week. Today it was Zenit's turn for denial.
"The quality of play shown by FC Zenit in the games against Rangers FC and Bayern Munich is the best proof that the victories were earned by Zenit in honest and non-compromising challenges."
Unfortunately, mobsters have influenced soccer most recently a Croatian outfit influenced a German referee in second division matches. It seems hard to believe that players at a massive club like Bayern would take payments and tank a high-profile semifinal match. The fact that the investigation between teams from Russia and Germany is taking place in Spain seems a little fishy as well.
Most importantly, Zenit smoked Bayern 4-0 in the second leg of the semifinal. The highlights are after the jump, so judge for yourself. (Sorry in advance for the terrible accompanying music.)
