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20 September 2007, by Tom Kundert

Sporting 0-1 Man United - Match Reaction

Paulo Bento, Sporting coach:

“It was a good match and a good display by our team. In the first 45 minutes we dominated the match and had the best opportunities. We always played in their half and controlled the opposition.”

“In the second half we weren’t so strong and Manchester scored from their first real chance. Given our performance I think the result is unjust. The exhibition of the Manchester United goalkeeper made the difference.”

“Last season we won our first match and ended up fourth in the group. Maybe this year we can do the opposite.”

Joao Moutinho, Sporting captain:

“Everybody saw we put in a tremendous performance. We created chances. Manchester United opted to play on the counter-attack because they had strong players on the wings, and ended up scoring a goal. We didn’t manage to finish the chances we created and are left with a feeling of injustice.”

Miguel Veloso, Sporting midfielder

“The first half went well for us. The second half was more evenly balanced; Manchester scored and we didn’t. Sporting put in a great display and showed we can fight against any team, be it Manchester United or any other world-class team.”

Carlos Queiros, Manchester United assistant manager:

“I’m very happy with the result. It was a difficult game for us. I accept that Sporting are justified in feeling that they deserved a draw. However, in my opinion, if this match deserved a winner it had to be us.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United winger:

“Manchester came here looking for the win but Sporting also played very well – they are a strong side at home. In the first half we didn’t play well but in the second half we improved. I think we were fair winners, without taking merit away from Sporting. If they continue playing like this I think they’ve got a good chance of progressing to the next phase.”

(On lack of goal celebration): “I played here for a lot of years. It was an instantaneous sensation and reaction but I do not have an explanation for it. I was happy and proud at the reaction of the Sporting supporters. I’m not going to lie and of course I’m very happy to have scored, but at the same time I was sad.”


Sporting 0-1 Manchester United - Match Report