I was hoping many goals at Old Trafford and it was granted. But not in this kind of score line. Again the Swiss went back home with a point. However this game should serve United as the wake up call. There are a lot of things need extra attention especially at the back line.
United started with five men in the midfield with surprising omission of Nani. Valencia claimed the right winger spot with Young at the left. Anderson and Carrick were the first choice for central midfield. Giggs as expected was given supporting role for the lone striker. Another surprise selection was Welbeck as the lone striker ahead more experience Berbatov. Meanwhile Fabio was again preferred rightback with Jones, Ferdinand and Evra completed the back four.
The game was played in the high tempo that been the style of United for Champion League games. Both team adapted well but Basel had showed the signs that United will not have easy night with several dangerous shots. However it was United taken the lead. Quick passes resulted United first goal that scored by Welbeck which assisted by Giggs. Then a minute later Welbeck scored the second where was also assisted by Giggs.
Although trailing by two goals Basel never gave up. And their persistent was paid where they score a beautiful goal from the 18 yards box by Fabian Frei. It was a thunderbolt that left De Gea rooted on his line. Second goal was score by Alexender Frei who send a header passed De Gea. Questions raised regarding Ferdinand performance last night especially the way United conceded the second goal. Ferdinand positioning was way convenient. He did not try to attack the ball which left Frei with free header. Seemed that he had lost his timely interception ability and his great anticipation skill.
Then came the third goal that stunned the Old Trafford. It was rather soft penalty. I did not think many referees will give penalty in the kind of Valencia situation. No need to elaborate more. Nevertheless it was good penalty taken Alexander Frei.
Then came the bombardment from United. Berbatov who came in for Anderson came twice to score. First from the glancing then at the end of the game where smashed the ball for side netting, although the better choice was to cross the ball. Welbeck also had a chance to grab hatrick but his effort went wide. It was left to Young who came to save United blushes. He planted a header to beat Basel keeper at near post from Nani superb cross.
Well United had four more games to go. This game should give United lesson in Champions League and to wake up the United players that they could not rest on their laurel with their great run in domestic league.
Glory Glory United
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