Three Headers to Top Group (Manchester United 3 - Benfica 1)

We started the game with our strongest 11, and for half an hour we played like we fielded most of our second stringers. For some reason, the team that was tearing up the domestic league looked really ordinary. While we controlled most of the possession, we were not at all convincing.

Benfica gradually grew in confidence and took the lead with an unstoppable thunderbolt from right-back Nelson. It was a stinger that no keeper in the world could keep out. From our less than convincing performance till then, I was expecting the worst. We only needed a point from this game and like the previous two games, we were trailing. Over in Denmark, Copenhagen was doing their part and leading Celtic by 2-0.

Thankfully the goal was what was needed to awake the red giant. Sleepwalking thru this tie no longer became an option. We started stringing passes and started to lay seige on the Benfica goal. Only desparate defending, timely tackles and some cynical fouling stopped our progress. But our attacking playing was simply too much for Benfica. Right at half time, Giggs won a freekick outside the box and took the kick himself. The Benfica defence, probably hoping for the half-time whistle were in sixes and sevens, tripping over one another when the Red tide surged forward. Vidic benefited from the chaos to head home the equaliser.

The relentless seige continued in the second half, and on the hour mark, we were rewarded with the lead. Ronaldo did superbly, by crossing the ball to Giggs. Giggs eluded the Benfica defense and headered us into the top of the group.

Saha then rounded off the win with our third header of the night on the 75th minute.

On this form, we would probably be one of the favourites in the Champions League. We were simply superb, barring the first half hour. Our away form still leaves alot to be desired, but at home, we're practically unstoppable.

It would be interesting to see who we would be facing in the next round. Personally I would love to see us matched up with Real Madrid or Barcelona. I like to see us matched up with the best 2nd place finisher. If we win, it would do our confidence a world of good. If we do get dumped in the competition, we can put more focus on push for the EPL. Ideally I would love for us to win both.