Champions League quarterfinals return leg
There was no miracle for Manchester United. Unlike against PSG, FC Barcelona took an early control of the game scoring twice in less than 5 minutes [16′, 20′] by Messi. The Argentine set up brilliantly his team to a 2-0 advantage, putting away any hopes of a comeback for Manchester United.
A third goal was added to celebrate the night for the Catalans. In 180 minutes, Manchester United were unable to put much danger up front and remained scoreless [0-1, 0-3].
The Red Devils must now focus on the Premier League. They rank 6th as the big clash against Man City loom ahead. They will need all the points they can get to reach the Champions League top 4 slots.
Barcelona return to the last four of the competition for the first time in 4 years [2015]. Indeed the last time they reached the semifinals, they went on to win the Cup in 2015 against Juventus.
FC Barcelona coach, Valverde said that: “being in the semi finals is our reward”. The club reaches the last four of the Champions League for the 8th time in 12 years. This shows how perennial this world class club is .
Man Utd coach Solskjaer comments on the fight ahead:
“We could see the difference between the two teams. The quality of finishing was outstanding. We started well for the first 15 minutes and we thought we’ve got something here, and then in four minutes they scored two goals which made it so hard. The attitude was right.
We knew we were fighting against a good team with good players. We know there’s work to do. We’ve said all along that this won’t change overnight and the next few years will be massive to get to the level teams like Barcelona are at.
We want to play these games again next year, so we have a massive week coming up with Everton, [Manchester] City and Chelsea. They’re disappointed but there’s no point dwelling on what could have been. It could have been different if we had started better and we got the first goal, but now we have to concentrate on next week.”
