Manchester United vs Chelsea: A Thrilling 2008 Champions League Final
A Historical All-English Clash
Lineups and Match Preview
On May 21, 2008, Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium witnessed a historic UEFA Champions League final between two English giants: Manchester United and Chelsea. It was the first time that an all-English final graced the competition.
Manchester United's lineup featured Edwin van der Sar in goal, with a defense of Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidić, and Wes Brown. Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick, and Cristiano Ronaldo formed the midfield, while Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez led the attack.
Chelsea's starting lineup consisted of Petr Cech in goal, John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, Ashley Cole, and Paulo Ferreira in defense. Claude Makelele, Frank Lampard, and Michael Ballack anchored the midfield, with Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou up front.
Match Recap and Thrilling Penalties
The match was a nail-biter from the get-go, with both teams showcasing their tactical prowess. The score remained level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, thanks to goals from Frank Lampard (Chelsea) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United).
Extra time failed to produce a winner, so the match went to penalties. Chelsea's Nicolas Anelka missed the decisive spot-kick, handing Manchester United a 6-5 victory in the shootout.
Significance and Legacy
The 2008 Champions League final was a pivotal moment in English football. It marked Manchester United's third Champions League triumph, placing them among the elite clubs of Europe. For Chelsea, it was a bitter disappointment, but the match showcased their growing strength and ambition.
The all-English final also highlighted the rise of the Premier League as a global footballing force. The match attracted an estimated audience of 360 million viewers worldwide, demonstrating the growing popularity and influence of English football.
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