On this day in 2011, Barcelona were crowned European champions after giving Manchester United what Sir Alex Ferguson described as a “hiding” at Wembley.
It was supposed to be a night of redemption for Manchester United, two years on from Barcelona’s 2-0 win in the Champions League final over Sir Alex Ferguson’s side in Rome.
But, sadly for United, once again the better team won. The Red Devils levelled Pedro’s first-half strike through Wayne Rooney, but Lionel Messi scored on English soil for the first time nine minutes into the second half before David Villa curled home the winning goal.
It was a gut-wrenching night for United fans, but Ferguson’s reaction at full-time was telling because nobody could deny Barcelona’s brilliance.
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Sir Alex Ferguson hailed Barcelona after 2011 Champions League final
Ferguson was full of praise for Pep Guardiola’s side following United’s 3-1 defeat at Wembley in the 2011 Champions League final.
Barcelona completely played United off the pitch, with the midfield trio of Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets pulling the strings for the attacking players.
The La Liga giants dominated possession as Messi withdrew from further forward and back into midfield. This was crucial for Barcelona as Guardiola’s side was determined to be in control.
United struggled with Barcelona’s relentless off-the-ball movement, with members of Fergie’s side visibly frustrated as they chased the ball.
Ferguson admitted after the match that Barcelona were the greatest team he had faced in his time as manager, although he expected more from his players after half-time.
“They do mesmerise you with the way they pass it,” Ferguson told reporters, as quoted by The Guardian.
“I expected us to do better, particularly after half-time, but it wasn’t to be. Great teams do go in cycles and they’re at the peak of the cycle they’re in at the moment.
“They’re the best in Europe, no question about that. In my time as a manager, I would say they’re the best team we’ve faced. Everyone acknowledges that and I accept that. It’s not easy when you’ve been well beaten like that to think another way. No one has given us a hiding like that. It’s a great moment for them. They deserve it because they play the right way and enjoy their football.
“But how long it lasts … whether they can replace that team at some point … they certainly have the right philosophy, but it’s always difficult to find players like Xavi [Hernández], [Andrés] Iniesta and [Lionel] Messi all the time. But they’re enjoying the moment that they have just now. We never controlled Lionel Messi, but many people have had to say that over the years.”
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Man Utd managed one shot on target against Barcelona
With Barcelona dominating possession and making Wembley one big rondo session, United were unable to get the ball to create chances.
United recorded just one shot on target compared to Barcelona’s 12 throughout the final.
Rooney’s goal registered as United’s only shot on target, while three more attempts were sent wide.
Moreover, United won 0 corners, and Barcelona took six.
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