Man Utd 1-0 Barcelona
A Paul Scholes strike in the first half was enough for Manchester United to beat Barcelona and face an English side in the final of the Champions League final.
The Catalans made a bright start with Frank Rijkaard’s side not allowing United to settle down and dominate possession. The Manchester United defenders were kept busy as Messi and Samuel Eto’o threatened and goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar’s mis-kick could have cost the hosts.
Against the run of play, on 14 minutes, the home side took the lead as Paul Scholes’ 25-yard shot swerved into the top corner after a poor ball from Zambrotta.
Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes fumbled in the 18th minute after a Nani free kick from the right, but United had no one to take advantage.
Soon after, Messi’s shot was stopped by Van der Sar. Meanwhile at the other end, Park saw his effort go close after being set up by Ronaldo.
United missed a guilt edged chance to double their lead when Nani’s glancing header missed the post in the 41st minute.
The second half was played out much like the first, with Barca controlling most of the possession.
Messi was always a threat when Barcelona managed to get the ball to him. Barca threw on Henry and Bojan.
Henry had a god headed chance, but he directed the ball at Van der Sar.
The more the game went on, the more United were content to soak up the pressure and let Barcelona attack them.
Barcelona kept pushing but were unable to produce a finishing edge and United now face Chelsea or Liverpool in the final.
