United travelled to Switzerland in the knowledge that a result was expected of them. A draw or a win would ensure qualification to the knock-out rounds, but this is Manchester United, and it was thought only the three points would do. They travel back to England with nothing but an overwhelming sense of disappointment, the uninspiring thought of playing in the Europa League, and their managers words no doubt ringing in their ears following his very likely forcefully loud diagnosis of their loss in the away dressing room at the end of the game.
"United thrive under pressure," we were told prior to the game by the clubs summer recruit, Phil Jones. Going by this result, clearly not, Phil. A goal behind after just nine minutes thanks to a bit of questionable goalkeeping from David de Gea meant Manchester United were chasing the game, and despite dominating the chances conceded another just before the end. A late United goal which squirmed agonizingly over the line was hardly a consolation for the lack of quality in finishing chances throughout the game; despite the high expectations and the typicality for United to grab late goals, the team failed to deliver, just as they have done throughout this seasons Champions League.
When Basel came to Old Trafford, United lost a two goal lead and came close to losing the game 2 - 3. If it wasn't for a late Ashley Young header, Sir Alex Ferguson and his team would have been out before last nights game even began. The fact that United's only two wins in the competition this year were against the previously unknown and in the end pointless side, Otelul Galati, suggests that the clubs chances of getting wins from the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid further into the competition were slim from the get-go.
Blame it on poor form, bad luck with injuries, awful finishing of chances, or just all round disappointing performances; all played their part, but looking back on the group stage now, there were so many missed opportunities and avoidable errors which rendered United complacent, off-guard, naive and wasteful. Progression wasn't deserved.
There have been too many blips in United's Champions League journey, and clearly there are a number of issues which need sorting out. However, at the present moment, United will have to concentrate on where they are left, and what they are left with - the Europa League. They are joined by Manchester City, who also failed to qualify despite gaining an impressive 10 points in an incredibly difficult group in comparison to United, and both Manchester clubs will surely be favorites for the 'crown' if they take it at all seriously.
An awful injury to the captain Nemanja Vidic was probably the biggest blow to the club in the short term and possibly long term, with his knee buckling horribly under pressure and at an awkward angle. There are fears it could be ligament damage with the Serbian being stretchered off in agony - yet another slice of bad luck for United's medical staff who are currently nursing three strikers and a few midfielders.
Luck has been on United's side before, but tonight, and recently, not much has gone the way of Ferguson's team. Second in the League they may be, but out of the Champions League (and Carling Cup) against opposition who, with respect, should be defeated is and cannot be good enough for the three time winners of the European Cup.
This loss is a reality check and a wake-up call. Breezing through the group stages is not an option. Taking your chances, winning games and building a solid team who can defend simple attacks as well as intricate ones is crucial. Unfortunately, this year, United seemed unprepared for the challenge, and they have been ruthlessly punished.
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