Headed goals from Nemanja Vidic, Ryan Giggs and Louis Saha gave United the win, while Celtic lost 3-1 to Copenhagen in Denmark, which sees the Reds leapfrog the Scottish side, who also go through as runners-up. This was a match to shred the nerves of the calmest fan. With 17 minutes of the half remaining Benfica worked their way to the edge of the Reds’ box and right-back Nelson struck a near unstoppable right-footed shot into the top corner. If nothing else it was the awakening the Reds needed. With clock running down on half time United fans were defiant, so were the team. A Giggs free kick following a foul on Ronaldo by Simao, was perfectly placed. Nemanja Vidic rose above everyone and slammed his header into the back of the net. Old Trafford erupted like the lid had been taken off a pressure cooker. The timing couldn’t have been better, the half-time whistle went seconds later. The Reds were brimming with energy after the break and the pace to United’s play was crucial in keeping the fans in full voice. With 57 minutes on the clock the breakthrough that United’s positive play deserved finally came. Ronaldo toyed with Benfica left-back Leo before planting an inch-perfect cross into space. Giggs lost his marker and nodded the ball past Quim. A third headed goal arrived with nearly fifteen minutes remaining to virtually kill off the tie. Darren Fletcher, on as a substitute for Ryan Giggs, swung in a right-footed centre and Saha grabbed his fourth goal in five Champions League games this season with a well-placed header. The second half was a one-sided affair and after the third goal United were simply seeng this game out. With Celtic losing in Denmark, Sir Alex’s side had Group F’s top spot tied up, a task the Reds probably should have completed long before tonight. But, would United have it any other way?
Full Report: Manchester United
Clips & Pictures: Soccerpulse
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