Showing posts with label Champions League. Show all posts

Written by manuniteddevils in ,


Man United On Their Way To Wembley

Manchester United took a two goal lead against Schalke into the second leg of the Champions League semi-final at Old Trafford. United will now play Barcelona in the Champions Leagie Final after beating Schalke 4-1 at Old Trafford (6-1 on aggregate).

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, Rafael Da Silva, Smalling, Evans, O'Shea, Gibson, Scholes, Anderson, Valencia, Berbatov, Nani.

Subs: Kuszczak, Evra, Owen, Giggs, Hernandez, Vidic, Fletcher.

Jefferson Farfan had Schalke's first shot at goal but his low effort fell just wide of the post. Some brilliant work by Dimitar Berbatov almost created an opening for United, but he was unable to get the ball to a team-mate.

Man United took a 1-0 lead on the night (3-0 on aggregate) in the 26th minute. Darron Gibson put Antonio Valencia through on goal and the winger slotted the ball past Schalke keeper Manuel Neuer.

Man United doubled their lead five minutes later after a bad mistake from Neuer. Gibson's low shot slipped through the keepers hands and over the line to give United a 2-0 lead (4-0 on aggregate).

Schalke pulled a goal back in the 34th minute. After a cross in, the ball took a deflection off Jonny Evans, fell to Jurado who hit the ball past Edwin Van Der Sar.

Immediately after the Schalke goal, United went down the other end and almost replied with another goal but Valencia's effort was cleared off the line.

Anderson brought out a fantastic save by Neuer in the second half. Berbatov
found the Brazilian and his effort had to be forced behind by Neuer for a corner.

Man United's first substitution will be to bring Patrice Evra on for Rafael Da Silva. Smalling did have the ball in the back of the net but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Minutes later Man United did score their third of the night. Luis Nani pulled the ball back to Anderson, who was challenged by Atsuto Uchida in the penalty area but it was Anderson who got to the ball first and he hit it past Neuer.

Immediately after the goal, Darren Fletcher was brought on for Scholes after recovering from an illness. Man United's fourth goal of the game came on the 76th minute. Berbatov's cross in from the right fell to Anderson, who tapped the ball in from close range. That was then followed by United's final substitution of the game, which was to bring on Michael Owen for Berbatov.

Substitute Klass-Jan Huntelaar did score for the away side, but just like Smalling, his was ruled out for offside. Van Der Sar made a brilliant save from Edu, Hunterlaar was the first to the rebound, he did put the ball past the United keeper but he was ruled offside.

Three minutes were added on at the end, which saw Owen curl an effort on goal but he was denied by Neuer.

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Champions League Preview : Man United v Schalke

Wednesday night Manchester United hope to book their place in the Champions League final at Wembley. United go into the second leg against Schalke at Old Trafford with a 2-0 aggregate lead.

Team News

Manchester United-

Wayne Rooney missed Tuesday's training session because he has been suffering with a tight hamstring. Man United will assess his injury before the game. Fabio Da Silva also missed the training session.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that Darren Fletcher will feature tomorrow. Fletcher made his return from illness for Man United's reserves last Thursday, playing the first 45 minutes.

Man United squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Lindegaard, Rafael, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Smalling, Evans, Brown, Evra, Valencia, Scholes, Anderson, Carrick, Fletcher, Gibson, Park, Giggs, Nani, Obertan, Rooney, Berbatov, Owen and Hernandez.

Schalke-

Schalke are hoping that Benedikt Howedes has recovered from a strained stomach muscle. Klass-Jan Huntelaar could return from injury. Hunterlaar had been out for two months because of a damaged medial knee ligament.


Most Recent Meeting

Man United and Schalke played each other last week in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final tie. Man United beat the German side 2-0 with goals from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney.


Head-To-Head

Man United and Schalke have only played each other once, which was last Tuesday, Man United won the game 2-0.

Recent Form

Man United- LWWDL

1st May: Arsenal 1-0 Man United (Premier League)
26th April: Schalke 0-2 Man United (Champions League)
23rd April: Man United 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
19th April: Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April: Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)

Schalke- LLLDW

30th April: Bayern Munich 4-1 Schalke 04 (Bundesliga)
26th April: Schalke 0-2 Man United (Champions League)
23rd April: Schalke 0-1 FC Kaiserslautern (Bundesliga)
16th April: Werder Bremen 1-1 Schalke (Bundesliga)
13th April: Schalke 2-1 Inter Milan (Champions League)

Officials

Referee: Pedro Proenca
Assistant Referees: Tiago Trigo and Ricardo Santos
Fourth Official: Duarte Gomes
Additional Assistant Referees: Joao Capela and Joao Ferreira

Written by manuniteddevils in ,


Man United Have The Advantage After Win In Germany

Manchester United have a two goal advantage going into second leg against Schalke next week after beating the German side 2-0.

Man United starting XI: Van Der Sar, Fabio Da Silva, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Giggs, Park, Rooney and Hernandez.

Subs: Kuszczak, Anderson, Smalling, Nani, Scholes, Rafael Da Silva, Evans.

Schalke had a very early opportunity, but Alexander Baumjohann fired his shot straight at Edwin Van Der Sar. Minutes later a right footed shot by Wayne Rooney caused problems for Manuel Neuer after taking a deflection, but the keeper flicked the ball away for a corner.

Not long after Neuer was called into action again, Ji-Sung Park cut in from the left, his shot was saved and the ball rebounded to Javier Hernandez but the Mexican was ruled offside. That was immediately followed by another chance for United, Antonio Valencia's cross found Hernandez, who brought out another save from Neuer.

Then it was Schalke who came close to opening up the scoring. Jefferson Farfan came close to curling the ball into the bottom corner but his effort was just wide of the post.

Neuer was forced to make another save after Hernandez beat the offside trap but his low shot was saved by Neuer's legs. Man United continued to have opportunities; Hernandez came close but his shot hit the side netting, then the Mexican broke into the box again but pulled the ball back to Rooney instead of shooting.

Hernandez had another chance in the 25th minute but hit his shot across the face of goal. Ryan Giggs came close with a header but a fantastic save from Neuer on the line prevented the goal.

Half an hour into the game, Schalke made a rare break into the Man United penalty area but Giggs was there to dispossess Baumjohann.

Man United had many chances within seconds to score, somehow the ball was kept out of the back of the net. Hernandez had the first shot, which was saved, then Park had a shot blocked by a defender, the rebound fell to to Giggs who shot wide.

An unmarked Fabio Da Silva shot over the bar, then Schalke went down the other end of the field and wanted a penalty. Baumjohann went down in the area after a challenge from Valencia but the referee waved away the penalty appeals.
Manchester United should have scored yet again with only a minute left of the first half but Neuer made another brilliant save.

Neuer was called into action again only minutes into the second half. A free-kick taken by Giggs was glanced on by Patrice Evra but Neuer denied the Frenchman.

Then came another miss from Giggs, Valencia's cross found Giggs but he skewed his shot wide. United did have the ball in the back of the net through Hernandez on the 49th minute but he was ruled offside.

Schalke had a few chances, Jefferson Farfan's cross was half cleared by Nemanja Vidic. The ball fell to Jose Jurado but he hit his shot wide. Vidic came close to giving United the lead with a flick towards goal from a cross in by Valencia but his effort was blocked.

Schalke had a few opportunities after the hour mark, Raul Gonzalez found Peer Kluge from a corner, his shot was blocked but the ball fell to Raul, his cross was headed behind for a corner by Rio Ferdinand. A couple of minutes later, Edu had a shot saved by Van Der Sar.

Man United finally took the lead after Rooney's through ball found Giggs who was clean through and hit the ball through Neuer's legs.

United had another goal only a few minutes later, Hernandez won the ball, he played in Rooney who slotted the ball past Neuer.

With a two goal cushion and an important Premier League game away to Arsenal at the weekend, Sir Alex Ferguson brought on Oliveira Anderson and Paul Scholes for Hernandez and Park.

Schalke did force a good save out of Van Der Sar, Sergio Escudero hit a shot from 25-yards out but was well saved by United's keeper.

A couple of minutes later Luis Nani was brought on for Rooney. Evra came inches away from giving United a three goal lead after Nani hit the ball over Schalke's defence, Evra got onto the end of the ball but hit his shot just wide of the post.

The game finished 2-0 and Man United go into the game against Schalke next week at Old Trafford with a two goal lead.

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Champions League Preview: FC Schalke 04 v Manchester United

After a 1-0 win against Everton at the weekend in the Premier League, Man United now turn their attention to the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final match against FC Schalke 04.

Schalke have won every single one of their home games in the Champions League this season. Man United haven't conceded a goal away from home in this season's Champions League, winning four out of the five away games and drawing only one.

Team News

Klass-Jan Huntelaar, Peer Kluge, Christian Pander, Mario Gavranovic, Christoph Moritz and Tim Hoogland are all out injured for Schalke. Benedikt Howedes is rated as doubtful.

Man United are without Dimitar Berbatov, who didn't travel due to a groin strain. Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Ji-Sung Park were rested for the game against Everton, they are expected to return to the side.

United squad: Edwin Van Der Sar, Tomasz Kuszczak; Patrice Evra, Wes Brown, Chris Smalling, Rio Ferdinand, John O'Shea, Jonny Evans, Nemanja Vidic, Fabio Da Silva, Rafael Da Silva; Anderson, Ryan Giggs, Ji-sung Park, Michael Carrick, Luis Nani, Paul Scholes, Antonio Valencia, Gabriel Obertan, Darron Gibson; Michael Owen, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez.

Head-To-Head

Manchester United and FC Schalke 04 have never played each other before.

Recent Form

Schalke- LDWWW

23rd April: Schalke 0-1 Kaiserslautern 1 (Bundesliga)
16th April: Werder Bremen 1-1 Schalke (Bundesliga)
13th April: Schalke 2-1 Inter Milan (Champions League)
9th April: Schalke 1-0 Wolfsburg (Bundesliga)
5th April: Inter Milan 2-5 Schalke (Champions League)

Man United- WDLWW

23rd April: Man United 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
19th April: Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April: Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)
12th April: Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
9th April: Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)

Officials

Referee- Carlos Velasco Carballo
Assistant referees- Roberto Alonso Fernandez and Jesus Calvo Guadamuro
Fourth official- David Fernandez Borbalan
Additional assistant referees- Carlos Clos Gomez and Antonio Rubinos Perez

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Man United Through To The Semi's

Manchester United are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League after beating Chelsea at Old Trafford this evening.

Teams:

Man United starting XI- Van Der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Carrick, Park, Giggs, Hernandez and Rooney.

Subs- Kuszczak, Brown, Berbatov, Smalling, Scholes, Valencia and Gibson.

Chelsea starting XI- Cech, Ivanovic, Alex, Terry, Cole, Ramires, Essien, Lampard, Anelka, Torres and Malouda.

Subs- Turnbull, Benayoun, Drogba, Mikel, Zhirkov, Ferreira and Kalou.

The Game:

Man United got off to the better start. Luis Nani was fouled by Branislav Ivanovic but the resulting free-kick was poor, then Wayne Rooney volleyed the ball from 35 yards out but was caught by Petr Cech.

Chelsea's first opportunity fell to Fernando Torres, who got onto the end of a cross by Nicolas Anelka and his header fell wide of the post. That was followed by two great chances for the away side. Anelka had a strike fall just wide of the post, then Frank Lampard hit a close range effort straight at Edwin Van Der Sar.

Javier Hernandez had the ball in the back of the net on the 27th minute but he was ruled offside. Rooney's cross in was headed past Cech by Hernandez but the goal was ruled out.

Van Der Sar had to make a fantastic save, just as it looked like Anelka might beat him to the ball, United's keeper made a brilliant tackle outside the box.

Man United took the lead in the 44th minute with a goal from Hernandez, after he was picked out by Ryan Giggs and the Mexican tapped home.

Carlo Ancelotti made an immediate change after half time, which was to bring on Didier Drogba for Torres. Drogba was an instant threat, who got on the end of a cross by Ivanovic but Vidic was there to block the ball.

Lampard and Florent Malouda both had efforts at goal within the opening minutes of the second half. Lampard scuffed his shot wide and Malouda volleyed wide from outside the area.
Drogba came close to pulling a goal back for Chelsea 57 minutes in after he turned past Rio Ferdinand but his shot drifted wide of the far post. Seconds later, Patrice Evra handed Chelsea a brilliant chance to threaten the Man United goal after the Frenchman fouled Drogba just outside the penalty area. The free-kick was cleared by United, Rooney down ran down the other end of the pitch and was fouled just outside the area by Lampard.

Nani came close to putting United 2-0 up (3-0 on aggregate) but Cech saved his low effort and pushed the ball behind for a corner. Giggs had an even better opportunity after a wonderful cross for Giggs, who miss-cued his header.

Chelsea were down to 10 men after Ramires was shown a second yellow card for a foul challenge from behind on Nani.

Man United's first and only substitution came in the 75th minute after Antonio Valencia came on for Nani.

It looked like the match was set for a nervy finish after Drogba gave Chelsea a glimmer of hope. Drogba was put through on goal by Michael Essien, he was judged to have been onside and he hit the ball past Van Der Sar.

Chelsea's celebrations didn't last long, literally only second later, Ji-Sung Park gave Man United the lead again. Giggs found Park on the left of the box and the South Korean smashed a low shot past Cech.

Chelsea continued to attack the United goal, Malouda forced a great save from Van Der Sar.

The game finished 2-1 to Manchester United (3-1 on aggregate) and Man United have made it through to the semi-final's of the UEFA Champions League.

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Champions League: Man United v Chelsea Preview

Tomorrow night Manchester United take on Chelsea at Old Trafford in the Champions League quarter-final second leg. Chelsea go into the second leg 1-0 down after Man United beat them at Stamford Bridge last Wednesday.

Team News

Man United:

Rafael Da Silva is the only doubt for Man United ahead of the game.

Darren Fletcher is out of the game, he has been suffering from a virus. The last time Fletcher played was when he came on as a substitute against Liverpool on he 6th March.

Wayne Rooney missed United's 2-0 win over Fulham on Saturday due to suspension but he can play for United in the Champions League. Also back for United is Rio Ferdinand, who also missed the win because he has been suffering from a calf injury.

Chelsea:

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has a fully fit squad to pick from.

Yossi Benayoun and Alex both returned from injury at the weekend. Jose Boswinga has recovered from the illness that ruled him out at the weekend.

Most Recent Meeting

The two clubs played each other last Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final. Man United won the game 1-0 with Rooney scoring the only goal.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Chelsea have played each other 159 times. Man United have won 68 of those games, lost 44 times and there have been 47 draws.

Recent Form

Man United: WWWWW

9th April: Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)
15th March: Man United 2-1 Marseille (Champions League)
Chelsea: WLDWD

9th April: Chelsea 1-0 Wigan (Premier League)
6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: Stoke 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
20th March: Chelsea 2-0 Man City (Premier League)
16th March: Chelsea 0-0 FC Copenhagen (Champions League)

Managers

Sir Alex Ferguson:

"Chelsea are no more desperate than Manchester United, believe me”
"For any club when the expectations are high you come to a situation where it is all or nothing.
"People talk about us winning the league but we are desperate to win this game."

Carlo Ancelotti:

“I agree that United are favourites because they have an advantage from the first leg. But I’m sure they are not so comfortable because it’s not a clear result. We have to come back in the game – and we will.

“A win there is not easy but it’s good for us to think that last year when we needed to win there, we won. This is important for me. We have a good memory and it could be good to motivate us again.

"I think we have the team and we have the ability to win at Old Trafford.”

Referee

Olegario Benquerence (Portugal)

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Advantage United

Manchester United will go into the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Chelsea next Tuesday with a 1-0 lead.

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, Rafael Da Silva, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Giggs, Park, Hernandez, Rooney.

Subs: Kuszczak, Berbatov, Smalling, Nani, Scholes, Evans, Gibson.

Chelsea nearly had an early goal with a chance for Fernando Torres who nearly got on the end of a cross in by Jose Bosingwa but he was just beaten to the ball by Rio Ferdinand. That was followed by a late challenge by Michael Essien on Wayne Rooney. No yellow card was shown but Rooney was able to continue.

Park had shot from the edge of the box was deflected behind for a corner, the resulting corner was rolled to Rooney by Ryan Giggs but Chelsea cleared before the ball got to Rooney. Chelsea did have their own chances, one of which was a shot from Didier Drogba, which was tipped over by Edwin Van Der Sar.

Man United took the lead in the 24th minute. A brilliant pass by Carrick to Giggs, who picked out Rooney who's shot went in off the back post.

Half an hour in, Chelsea started to put some pressure on the Man United goal. Yuri Zhirkov's cross in was completely miss-kicked by Torres. That was then followed by a good cross into the area by Bosingwa but Rafael Da Silva was there to turn the ball behind for a corner.

United nearly had a second goal after the ball was chipped to Javier Hernandez, who was so close to making contact, which would have been a goal.

The final two minutes of the first half was all Chelsea. Drogba's cross in was flicked on by Torres, the ball hit the post, rebounded straight to Frank Lampard, who's shot was cleared off the line by Patrice Evra.

Second half and Manchester United's first substitution was in-forced after Rafael went down after a challenge by Drogba. Rafael received treatment and did return to the field for a few minutes but he was unable to continue and was stretchered off. Luis Nani was immediately brought on.

Rooney did have the ball in the back of the net again in the 54th minute but Hernandez was judged to be offside in the build-up.

Chelsea escaped again after the ball was crossed into the area by Nani, keeper Petr Cech just managed to a touch on the ball and push it behind Hernandez, who was there ready to score. Chelsea came close a few times, the first was a powerful effort from Essien but the ball fell wide of the post. Torres also had an opportunity but his looping header was clawed away by Van Der Sar.

Sir Alex Ferguson's second substitution was to bring on Dimitar Berbatov, who replaced Hernandez.

The final 10 minutes saw Van Der Sar booked for time wasting. Branislav Ivanovic had a shot saved by Van Der Sar. Nani almost had a chance but the ball was smothered at his feet by Cech.

Chelsea could have been awarded a penalty in added time after Patrice Evra brought Ramires down in the area but the referee waved away the appeals.

Man United held on to the win and go into the second leg with a 1-0 lead, which is a very important away goal.

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Champions League: Chelsea v Man United Preview

Tomorrow night, Manchester United and Chelsea will face each other in the Champions League.

Man United and Chelsea have played each other in Europe was in the 2008 UEFA Champions League final. After a 1-1 draw, the match went to penalties, which Man United won 6-5.

Man United are 11 points ahead of the London side in the Premier League and Chelsea are out of the FA Cup so this could be their last chance of silverware this season.


Team News

Chelsea:

Centre-back David Luiz is cup-tied so he wont play a part.

Yossi Benayoun and Alex both trained on Tuesday but manager Carlo Ancelotti has said that they are unlikely to play.

Man United:

Rio Ferdinand could return from a calf injury after training all week but Sir Alex Ferguson is unsure whether he will be available for tomorrow or not. Both Jonny Evans and Rafael Da Silva are available to play. Wes Brown and John O'Shea have both returned to training.

Most Recent Meeting

Man United and Chelsea met in the Premier League on the 1st March at Stamford Bridge. Man United took the lead through Wayne Rooney but goals from Luiz and Frank Lampard (penalty) handed Chelsea the win. Nemanja Vidic was sent off in injury time.


Head-To-Head

Man United and Chelsea have played each other 158 times. Man United have won 67 of those games, lost 44 times and there have been 47 draws.

Man United and Chelsea have only played once in Europe, which was the 2008 Champions League final.

Recent Form

Chelsea: DWDWW

2nd April: Stoke 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
20th March: Chelsea 2-0 Manchester City (Premier League)
16th March: Chelsea 0-0 FC Copenhagen (Champions League)
7th March: Blackpool 1-3 Chelsea (Premier League)
1st March: Chelsea 2-1 Man United (Premier League)

Man United: WWWWL

2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)
15th March: Man United 2-1 Marseille (Champions League)
12th March: Man United 2-0 Arsenal (FA Cup)
6th March: Liverpool 3-1 Man United (Premier League)

Officials

Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Assistant referees: Fermin Martinez Ibanez (Spain)and Juan Carlos Yuste Jimenez (Spain)
Additional assistant referees: Fernando Teixeira Vitienes (Spain) and Carlos Clos Gomez (Spain)
Fourth official: David Fernandez Borbalan (Spain)

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Stalemate At The Velodrome

Manchester United have resumed their Champions League campaign with a 0-0 draw against Marseille in the Stade Velodrome.

Man United squad:

Starting line-up: Van Der Sar, O'Shea, Smalling, Vidic, Evra, Fletcher, Gibson, Carrick, Nani, Rooney and Berbatov.

Bench- Kuszczak, Rafael, Brown, Fabio, Scholes, Obertan and Hernandez

The Game: 

Manchester United got off to a positive start with a few efforts on goal and pressurising the Marseille defence but the longer the first half went on, the fewer chances there were.

The first opportunity of the game fell to United; a free-kick taken by Luis Nani, which struck the wall but rebounded straight into the path of Darren Fletcher, his shot tested Marseille keeper Steve Mandanda but he managed to gather the ball second time round.

Marseille's best chance of the first half came in the 40th minute. A corner taken by Andre Ayew nearly went in but Edwin Van Der Sar got across to the near post to claim the ball.

The first chance of the second half fell to Marseille but Van Der Sar was able to collect Brandao's header. A minute later, down the other end of the pitch, Wayne Rooney's cross was missed by Mandanda, fortunately for the home side, Gabriel Heinze was able to head the ball away with Nani behind him ready to head the ball into the goal.

That was followed by a bright spell for Marseille, Lucho Gonzalez nearly got onto the end of a cross by Heinze. Loic Remy's strike was blocked, the ball found it's way to Ayew who had a shot on goal. The shot was going wide but nearly fell for Brandao, fortunately for United, it didn't.

One of United's best chances of the game came in the 81st minute. Nani slipped the ball to Dimitar Berbatov, he tried to play Nani in but the ball took a slight deflection, which gave Mandanda the opportunity to come off his line and collect the ball, just ahead of Nani.

With only three minutes remaining, Rooney looked to be clear through on goal but was pulled back by Stephane M'Bia, the referee saw nothing wrong with the challenge and waved play on.

The game finished in a 0-0 draw, it wasn't the best of games but not such a bad result for Man United.

Reaction:

After the game, Sir Alex Ferguson told ITV1:

"It was disappointing [the teams performance], the pitch was lively but they made sure they weren't going to lose a goal. We got in good positions but we didn't have enough.

"Nil-nil can be a dangerous scoreline if you lose a goal at home but it's about winning the game, if we win the game we're through. We're confident, I think we'll be much better."

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Marseille v Man United Preview

Manchester United's Champions League campaign resumes tomorrow with a final 16 first leg match against Marseille at the Stade Velodrome.

Team News

The Man United squad flew out to France today, absentees were Rio Ferdinand, Michael Owen, Ryan Giggs, Ji-Sung Park, Anderson, Jonny Evans and Antonio Valencia. Youngsters Ryan Tunnicliffe and Josh King both travelled.

Squad: Van Der Sar, Kuszczak, Lindegaard, Vidic, Smalling, O'Shea, Evra, Brown, Rafael, Fabio, Scholes, Nani, Gibson, Carrick, Fletcher, Obertan, Tunnicliffe, Bebe, Rooney, Berbatov, Hernandez and King.

Marseille will be without Andre-Pierre Gignac who picked up a groin injury during a 2-1 win over St Etienne at the weekend. Loic Remy and Brandao also picked up an injury during the win but Marseille are confident that they will both recover in time.

Matthieu Valbuena may return from injury, he has been suffering from a knee problem and has returned to training but the game may come too early for him.

Group Stage

Marseille qualified out of Group F as group runners up, Chelsea finished top of the group. Also in group F were Spartak Moscow and MSK Zilina.
The French side won four out of their six games played in the group, they lost the other two matches. The French side scored 12 and conceded only three goals.

Manchester United are unbeaten in this season's Champions League, after four wins and two draws in the group stage. Man United only conceded one goal in all of the games, scoring seven in the process.

Previous Meetings

The last time the two clubs met was back in the 1999/2000 Champions League group stage. The first match was played at Old Trafford, which Man United won 2-1. That was then followed a few months later with a 2-1 win for Marseille at the Stade Velodrome.

Recent Form

Marseille: WWWDW

19th Feb: Marseille 2-1 St Etienne (Coupe de la ligue)
12th Feb: Sochaux 1-2 Marseille (Ligue 1)
5th Feb: Marseille 1-0 Arles (Ligue 1)
30th Jan: AS Monaco 0-0 Marseille (Ligue 1)
16th Jan: Auxerre 0-2 Marseille (Ligue 1)

Marseille are third in the Ligue 1 table. They beat St Etienne 2-1 at the Stade Velodrome at the weekend, which closed the gap down to three points on Ligue 1 leaders Lille.

Man United : WWLWW

19th Feb: Man United 1-0 Crawley (FA Cup)
12th Feb: Man United 2-1 Man City (Premier League)
5th Feb: Wolves 2-1 Man United (Premier League)
1st Feb: Man United 3-1 Aston Villa (Premier League)
29th Jan: Southampton 1-2 Man United (FA Cup)

United beat non-league side Crawley Town 1-0 at Old Trafford in the FA Cup at the weekend. In the league, Man United are four points ahead of second place Arsenal after 26 games played.

Officials

Referee: Felix Brych (Germany)
Assistant Referees: Mark Borsch (Germany) and Thorsten Schiffner (Germany)
Additional Assistant Referees: Babak Rafati (Germany) and Peter Sippel (Germany)
Fourth Official: Knut Kircher (Germany)

Brych has officiated four matches so far in this years competition, he has shown 11 yellow cards and is yet to show a red card.

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Rooney: Barca Are The Team To Beat

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has said that Spanish side Barcelona are the team to beat in this years Champions League.

Both teams are through to the final 16 of the competition. Man United will play Marseille and Barcelona face Arsenal. Barcelona finished top of their group with four wins and two draws. They scored 14 goals and only conceded three. Man United also finished top of their group with four wins and two draws but only seven and let in one goal.

Rooney told the official Champions League magazine: "They [Barcelona] are the team to beat".

"They are a fantastic team and people will remember what this Barcelona side have done for a long time to come, like the great Real Madrid and Manchester United teams.

"Their football is brilliant to watch and they win games playing that way, which is the main thing.

"Barcelona stand out for me. You can safely say if you beat Barcelona you have a good chance of winning the competition."

The last time Man United played Barcelona was in the 2009 final at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy., United lost 2-0 after goals from Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi. The year before the two sides played each other in the semi-final stage, it was United who progressed after a 1-0 aggregate win. Man United went on to beat Chelsea and lift the Champions League trophy.

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Man United To Face Marseille In The Champions League

Old Trafford Manchester United v Valencia Champions League Group C 07/12/2010 Sir Alex Ferguson (Man Utd) Photo: Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom
After qualifying top of their group, Manchester United were guaranteed a slightly easier draw than the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, who they could have drawn if they finished second.

Earlier on today Man United were drawn against French side Marseille in the next stage of the Champions League.

Marseille were in Group F along with Chelsea, who Man United play on Sunday. The two games between those two sides saw Chelsea win 2-0 at Stamford Bridge and Marseille win 1-0 at their ground the Stade Velodrome.

Man United currently have an unbeaten record in this years Champions League after four wins and two draws in the group stage. United conceded only one goal, scoring seven in the process. Marseille also won four times in the group stage but have lost twice. The French side scored 12, conceding only three goals.

In the other final 16 ties, Arsenal will play Barcelona, Tottenham have AC Milan, Chelsea face Copenhagen. Lyon were drawn against Real Madrid, Valencia play Schalke, Inter Milan have Bayern Munich and Roma will play Shakhtar Donetsk.

The first leg will be played on the 15/16 and 22/23 February. The second legs will be played on the 8/9 March and 15/16 March.

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Man United Top Group C After 1-1 Draw

Old Trafford Manchester United v Valencia Champions League Group C 07/12/2010 Nani (Man Utd) gets the better of Jordi Alba (Valencia) Photo: Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom
Manchester United will avoid teams such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich after topping Group C with a 1-1 draw against Valencia.

Sir Alex Ferguson fielded a fairly strong side with the main surprise being Ben Amos in goal with Tomasz Kuszczak on the bench.

United got off to a good start, Anderson was dominating the game and Dimitar Berbatov should have bagged himself a hat-trick. Anderson could have had himself a couple but his shooting was very much off target.

Valencia’s goal came in the 32nd minute after Michael Carrick lost possession, the move ended in Pablo Hernandez firing past Amos.

United’s best chance of the first half came from a curling strike from Wayne Rooney, which hit the bar, Luis Nani dragged the rebound wide.

After a frustrating first half, the second half didn’t start much better with Rio Ferdinand having to be replaced by Chris Smalling after picking up an injury only five minutes in.

United thought they had equalised after Berbatov scored but the goal was ruled out after Berbatov had been marginally offside.

With 62 minutes on the clock United did equalise through Anderson. Valencia keeper Vicente Guaita only managed to parry a strike from Ji-Sung Park in the direction of Anderson, who tapped the ball in.

With not long remaining, Ryan Giggs came on for his 850th appearance for United, replacing Nani.

Both teams pressed for a winner but the game finished 1-1 and it’s Man United who top the group. Valencia also progress to the next round of the Champions League, Rangers finish third and drop down into the Europa Cup. Bursaspor unsurprisingly finish bottom of the group.

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Champions League Preview: Manchester United v Valencia

Manchester United's Javier Hernadez scores a goal against Valencia's Javi Navarro (C) and Cesar Sanchez (R) during their Champions League Group C soccer match at Mestalla stadium in Valencia, September 29, 2010. REUTERS/Albert Gea (SPAIN - Tags: SPORT SOCCER)
Tuesday night both Manchester United and Valencia will battle it out for top spot in their final match of the Champions League group stage. All United need out of tomorrow’s game is a point. Barcelona and Real Madrid have already secured top spot in their respective groups, that’s exactly what United will be looking to do.

Man United beat Valencia 1-0 at the Estadi de Mestalla back in September after Javier Hernandez scored with five minutes remaining. United are yet to concede a goal in this years Champions League, scoring six in the process. Valencia have scored 14 goals, conceding just three.

The Man United players have had a rest after the Premier League game against Blackpool at the weekend was postponed due to severe snow. Valencia were in action over the weekend, they lost 2-0 to Real Madrid.

Michael Owen returned to training last week but Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that he will not be involved. Sir Alex will make many changes to the side who lost 4-0 to West Ham in the Carling Cup last week. Paul Scholes has been out with a groin strain, he may return along with Edwin Van Der Sar, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov who were rested against the Hammers.

Referee tomorrow is financial advisor Pedro Proenca. The Portuguese was named Portuguese referee of the year in the 2006-2007 seasons. This will be the first Man United game that Proenca has refereed but he has officiated three other Champions League matches in this year’s competition.

In the other group game Rangers are away to Bursaspor. Rangers are already guaranteed third place, which will see them drop down into the Europa Cup, so there is nothing to play for in that game.

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Late Penalty Secures Qualification

Ibrox Park Glasgow Rangers v Manchester United Champions League Group C 24/11/2010 Wayne Rooney (Man Utd) celebrates after scoring from penalty Photo: Roger Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom
Wayne Rooney stepped up and scored a late penalty for Man United, which guaranteed progression to the last 16 of the Champions League.

Manchester United had most of the possession throughout the game but found it incredibly difficult to break down the Rangers defence. It was a very negative performance from the home side, who kept most men behind the ball for most of the game.

United should have been awarded a stonewall penalty only minutes in after Dimitar Berbatov was brought down in the area by Steven Davis. Somehow both the referee and extra official missed it.

Minutes later, Berbatov should have put United ahead but his header from Fabio da Silva’s cross didn’t have enough power on it to beat Allan McGregor in the Rangers goal. The home sides first chance came 15 minutes in from a free-kick but Kenny Millers header fell wide of Edwin Van Der Sar’s post.

The closest either side came to scoring in the first half came just before half time, another great cross by Fabio was headed onto the bar by Rooney. That was followed by a golden opportunity for Rangers, a run down the right and then a shot by Steven Naismith was blocked by Van Der Sar.

Not much changed during the second half, even though Rangers had to win to give them a chance of staying in the Champions League. The first chance of the second half was from a 30-yard free-kick taken by Rooney, but the ball flew inches wide of the post.

The Scottish side had a golden opportunity after a mix up at the back between Jonny Evans and Van Der Sar. Evans was expecting Van Der Sar to collect the ball but Naismith got in between them, fortunately for United, Van Der Sar was able to prevent Naismith from lifting the ball over him.

More opportunities fell to Rooney, the first was a long-range effort that flew both high and wide. The second came from a cross from Giggs but his diving header was well off target.

United were finally able to take the lead after a very high challenge on Fabio by Naismith in the penalty area. The referee immediately awarded the penalty, which was struck confidently past McGregor by Rooney.

The plaudits will go to Rooney but there was a Man Of The Match performance by Fabio da Silva, who continually caused problems for Rangers but he also delivered quite a few descent crosses. Chris Smalling also had an impressive game; he didn’t have too much to do but looked very calm and composed in the heart of United’s defence.

Man United won the game 1-0, Valencia won their game against Bursaspor 6-1, which means both United and Valencia progress. Manchester United will play Valencia at Old Trafford on the 7th December with both teams fighting for top spot.

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Rangers v Manchester United Preview

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney (C) challenges Ryan Giggs (R) during a training session, ahead of the Champions League soccer match against Rangers, at Carrington in Manchester, northern England, November 23, 2010. REUTERS/Darren Staples (BRITAIN - Tags: SPORT SOCCER)
This evening Manchester United play Rangers at Ibrox in the Champions League Group Stage, United only need a point to qualify for the next stage.

The game at Old Trafford between the two teams in September finished 0-0 but was overshadowed by a horrific injury to Antonio Valencia. Man United sit top of the Group C table on 10 points, Valencia have seven. Rangers are two points behind them on five and Bursaspor are yet to pick up any. To prevent United from qualifying, the Scottish side will have to do what no side have done yet in this year’s competition, score against United.

Man United will be without first choice central defenders Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, who are both being rested, which should mean starts for Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling. Darren Fletcher will also be missing after picking up an injury. Darron Gibson and Gary Neville missed Tuesday’s training session. Ryan Giggs and Anderson could both return after recovering from recent injuries.

Man United Squad: Van Der Sar, Amos, Rafael, O'Shea, Brown, Evans, Smalling, Evra, Fabio, Nani, Park, Carrick, Scholes, Anderson, Obertan, Giggs, Rooney, Berbatov, Hernandez, Macheda and Bebe.

Rangers are without Madjid Bougherra, Andy Webster, Maurice Edu, James Beattie, Nikica Jelavic and Sasa Papac. However, David Weir, Ricky Foster, Kirk Broadfoot and Steven Whittaker are all expected to play.

Referee is Switzerland’s Massimo Busacca, he officiated the 2009 Champions League Final in Rome between Barcelona and Man United, which United lost 2-0.

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Man United On The Brink Of Qualification

Manchester United's Darren Fletcher (R) celebrates a goal with team mates Gabriel Obertan (C) and Michael Carrick against Buraspor during their Champions League soccer match at Ataturk stadium in Bursa, western Turkey, November 2, 2010. REUTERS/Osman Orsal (TURKEY - Tags: SPORT SOCCER)
Manchester United only need one more point to qualify for the next round of the UEFA Champions League, after beating Bursapor 3-0 last night. With two games remaining (away to Rangers and at home to Valencia) one point is needed to progress to the final 16.

The main talking point of a fairly dull first half was the injury to Luis Nani. The winger picked up a slight groin injury, but it’s not to believed to be serious.

It was Dimitar Berbatov who had the first few opportunities for United, unfortunately for the Bulgarian he was unable to get the ball past Bursaspor keeper Dimitar Ivankov.

Paul Scholes had the ball past Ivankov not long before half time, the goal was ruled out after Scholes was penalised for handball.

Darren Fletcher gave United the lead only minutes into the second half. After a brilliant pass from Michael Carrick, Fletcher’s strike went into the bottom left corner of the goal.

After going 1-0 down Bursaspor went looking for an equaliser, both Ivan Ergic and Federico Insua both saw their efforts saved by Edwin Van Der Sar. Before the hour mark Omer Erdogan’s left-footed strike fell just wide of Van Der Sar’s right-hand post.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s second substitution of the game saw goalscorer Fletcher being replaced by Tiago Bebe. The game was virtually put to bed in the 77th minute with a superb strike from Gabriel Obertan.

The third and final goal of the night was scored by Bebe, he was put through on goal by a brilliant pass by Scholes, Bebe’s strike took a deflection off Ali Tandogan but he should be awarded with the goal.

Overall it was a good performance by the team, Michael Carrick looked much better than he has done in previous matches. It was great to see both Obertan and Bebe get on the score sheet, with injuries mounting they may be needed and the goals will fill them with some confidence. Chris Smalling replaced Rio Ferdinand in the heart of United's defence, he had a good game and there's definitely been some improvement.

Berbatov didn't have the best of games, with all the media spotlight on Javier Hernandez right now, maybe he just needs a goal. The other negatives were the injuries picked up by Fletcher and Nani, but both aren't thought to be too serious.

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Bursaspor v Manchester United Preview

Old Trafford Manchester United v Bursaspor Champiuonbs League Group C 20/10/10 Nani (Manchester United) takes on Ozan Ipek and Gustav Svensson (Bursaspor) Photo Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom

Manchester United have travelled to Turkey to play Turkish Champions Bursaspor in the Champions League tonight. Bursaspor have lost every match of the group stage so far, the last being a 1-0 loss to Man United at Old Trafford.

Man United are yet to lose a game this season, in all competitions. A win tomorrow will take them to 10 points, which would leave them onto the verge of qualification.

Bursaspor may have struggled in Europe this season but in the league, it is a different story. They currently sit at the top of the league after a 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce at the Bursa Ataturk Stadium on Friday.

Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia are all missing due to injury. Darron Gibson, Anderson, Federico Macheda and Darron Gibson all didn’t travel due to injury, nor did Rio Ferdinand, who is being rested.

The 20-man Man United squad is: Van der Sar, Amos, Kuszczak; Evra, Brown, Vidic, Smalling, Rafael, Fabio, O'Shea; Eikrem, Scholes, Obertan, Bebe, Fletcher, Carrick, Park, Nani; Berbatov and Hernandez.

The home side will be with Ali Tandogan and Milan Stepanov, who both picked up injuries at Old Trafford a few weeks back. Federico Insua will also be available after recovering from a hamstring injury, which he picked up against Fenerbahce on Friday.

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Comfortable But Uneventful Win For United

Old Trafford Manchester United v Bursaspor Champiuonbs League Group C 20/10/10 Nani (Manchester United) celebrates first goal Photo Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom
Luis Nani’s sixth minute goal was enough to pick up a vital three points in their Champions League match against Bursaspor. All the talk ahead of the game was about Man United’s wantaway striker Wayne Rooney.

There was no Rooney but the crowd showed their support for the manager with a cheer as he walked out for the game. The fans also made their feelings clear to the striker with one banner saying- 'Colleen forgave you, Wayne, we won't’.

There were five changes to the side that started against West Brom with Tomasz Kuszczak, Chris Smalling, Darren Fletcher, Ji-Sung Park and Federico Macheda all coming into the team. Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic, Rafael da Silva, Michael Carrick, Anderson and Nani all kept their places.

Six minutes in Nani’s stunning strike from outside the penalty area was enough for a comfortable win. After taking an early lead it looked like Bursaspor could be on the end of a thrashing but there wasn’t much else worth talking about.

The positives were a clean sheet and United moved two points clear of Rangers at the top of the Group C table. Other than that it wasn’t a good game, poor passing and the players weren’t at their best.

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Manchester United v Bursaspor Preview

Wayne Rooney Manchester United 2010/11 Manchester United V West Bromwich Albion 16/10/10 The Premier League Photo Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom
Ahead of the Champions League game against Bursaspor tomorrow evening, the massive news concerning Wayne Rooney is dominating the headlines. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Rooney is adamant that he wants to leave the club.

Sir Alex said: “His [Rooney’s] agent has intimated he won’t sign a contract and wants away. It’s a shock”. You can find the full interview with MUTV by clicking here.

Man United go into the game off the back of yet another draw in the Premier League after going 2-0 up, they conceded two goals against West Brom. Bersaspor were also held to a 2-2 draw after they played Karabukspor last Friday, but unlike United, they are top of their league table.

Rooney will not play a part in tomorrow’s game after being stretchered out of training with an ankle injury. Michael Owen has a slight groin injury and will also be out along with Jonny Evans, who has a hip injury and Ryan Giggs, who picked up a hamstring injury against West Brom at the weekend.

Man United squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, O'Shea, Brown, Rafael, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Smalling, Evra, Fabio, Nani, Obertan, Scholes, Fletcher, Carrick, Gibson, Anderson, Park, Berbatov, Macheda, Hernandez.

The Turkish Champions have lost their previous two games in this seasons Champions League group stages- a 4-0 loss to Valencia and 1-0 loss to Rangers. So far Man United have had a 1-0 win against Valencia and a 0-0 draw against Rangers.

Referee is Italy's Gianluca Rocchi, who has not taken charge of any game involving a Premier League side.

On paper, it looks like an easy win for United but with the way results have been going so far this season, Bursaspor could leave with a point or even three.