Barcelona 2 Man United 0: That’s another fine Messi – Barca taunt Fergie’s men with a lesson in possession
Published on: 28th May, 2009
Barcelona 2 Man United 0: That's another fine Messi - Barca taunt Fergie's men with a lesson in possessionROME - MAY 27: Lionel Messi of Barcelona scores the second goal for Barcelona during the UEFA Champions League Final match between Barcelona and Manchester United at the Stadio Olimpico on May 27, 2009 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) | read this item
Related News
The pursuit of immortality in the Eternal City proved a painful one for Manchester United last night. Their every human weakness was exposed in a lesson, given by this brilliant Barcelona side, that was brutal in its execution.
There are so many images that will live long in the memories of those who witnessed this annihilation in the Olympic Stadium.
But rarely, if ever, have Sir Alex Ferguson and his staff looked as beaten and so utterly deflated as they did after Lionel Messi scored the second of Barcelona’s goals in the 70th minute.
It was extraordinary to see these proud men of Manchester slumped in their seats in the dug-out, almost horizontal in some cases, and completely at a loss as to what to do next. They had been blocked at every turn; not so much outwitted as completely outclassed.
Rising high: Messi connects with Xavi’s delightful cross to give Barcelona a two-goal lead
Four times Ferguson changed his formation and four times Barcelona made the necessary adjustments that enabled them to maintain control. He tried 4-3-3, 4-4-2 and 4-3-3 again before throwing the lot, the kitchen sink included, at the Catalans with a 4-2-4 line-up that underlined the sense of desperation.
For Wayne Rooney, in particular, it became a frustrating night, his role changing on at least three occasions. Ferguson has resorted to such measures in the past. But never this early and never when just one goal – scored by Samuel Eto’o – still divided the teams.
Going nowhere: Ji-Sung Park battles with Sylvinho, Sergi Busquets andthe majestic Xavi
Readers Comments
You must be logged in to post a comment.
