The Busby Babe - Storystream: SC Braga 1-3 Manchester UnitedWhere it's always squeaky bum timehttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51377/tbb-fav.png2012-11-08T07:30:36+00:00http://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/rss/stream/33744532012-11-08T07:30:36+00:002012-11-08T07:30:36+00:00Jonny Evans & Nani both pick up knocks in Braga
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZqZTZUj4Dh4h_TOZYw7GErEgsR0=/0x48:521x395/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2863693/119682558.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jonathan Daniel</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jonny Evans and Nani both picked up minor knocks in Manchester United's 3-1 victory at Braga. </p> <p><span>Jonny Evans</span> and Nani were both substituted off in <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United's</a> 3-1 defeat of Braga and when both substitutions occurred, at separate times, it wasn't entirely clear whether it was because of their disappointing performances or because of a knock. Neither occurrence is desired, obviously, but the hope was that it was due to the former. Unfortunately, it appears both players sustained minor knocks and both were taken off due to what assistant manager Mike Phelan is describing as precautinary reasons:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Jonny felt his groin a little bit – I think it probably happened during the penalty incident. As a precaution we took him off quickly. With Nani I think it was probably just a lack of games and his hamstring started to tighten up, so we weren’t taking any chances with that."</p>
<p align="right">- <strike>Sir Alex's puppet</strike> Phelan | Source: <i>ManUtd.com</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p align="left">I suppose it's comforting that it doesn't sound serious but the club isn't exactly forthcoming on a consistent basis with the injuries to the squad. United have had awful luck thus far this season with their central-defenders and this knock to Evans occurred on the night that defender <span>Chris Smalling</span> finally made his long awaited return to the club. Hopefully, this isn't a situation where we gained one center-back but lost another. The fixture list is quite congested through the upcoming holiday season and the only other available established first-team central-defender is <span>Rio Ferdinand</span>. <span>Phil Jones</span> is not far from a return though.</p>
<p align="left">As for Nani, he's certainly not a first-choice player right now and the speculation is that manager <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> wants to limit his involvement until the winger's contract situation is resolved. The Portuguese international, though, is needed at the moment as <span>Antonio Valencia</span> and <span>Ashley Young</span> are the only other natural wingers on the squad.</p>
<p align="left">Neither knock sounds serious and perhaps Fergie will provide an update on both on Friday during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday's <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> tie. Or maybe he won't. If either or both of these players become unavailable for any length of time, the lack of ideal depth at the moment, at these player's positions -- particularly at center-back -- are the concerns we should have.</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/8/3616948/jonny-evans-and-nani-sustain-minor-knocks-in-bragaGene Um2012-11-08T06:14:07+00:002012-11-08T06:14:07+00:00Statistics & Post-Match Quotes | Braga 1-3 United
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Jk6niabuBuR__W5S1vwrKPceKKg=/0x64:4000x2731/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2862191/155720201.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Rose</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Statistics and post-match quotes from Mike Phelan, Jose Peseiro, Ryan Giggs, and Wayne Rooney. </p> <p align="center"><b>TEAM STATISTICS</b></p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span></span> <span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> </span></p>
<table class="sbnu-legacy-content-table" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><i style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; font-style: italic; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">The Busby Babe</i></p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><b>Braga<br></b></p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;"><b>United</b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Shots (on target)</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">13 (4) </span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">9 (5) </span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Total Passes Completed</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">327</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">557</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Passing Accuracy</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">82%</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">90%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Ball Possession</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">40%</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">60%</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Tackles won</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">21<span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; white-space: pre; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;"></span></span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">10</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Interceptions</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">14</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" align="left" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">11</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Fouls</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">13</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">11</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Corners</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">2</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">4</span></font></td>
</tr>
<tr style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 1.45in; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="104">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">Offsides</p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 112.5pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="113"><font size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">3</span></font></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: top; line-height: 16px; width: 81pt; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; margin: 0px;" valign="top" width="81"><font style="font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;" size="3"><span style="font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">3</span></font></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>MUFC PLAYER STATISTICS</b></p>
<p align="left"><b>* David de Gea (goalkeeper): </b>11/15 passing (73%), 1 goal conceded, 3 saves</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Chris Smalling</span> (right-center-back): </b>58/59 passing (98%), 4/5 long balls, 1 tackle, 0 interceptions, 4 clearances (1 effective), 2 shots blocked, 2 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Jonny Evans</span> (left-center-back | substituted off 57'): </b>50/53 passing (94%), 9/9 long balls, 0 tackles, 1 interception, 1 clearance (0 effective), 0 shots blocked, 1 foul</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Antonio Valencia</span> (right-back): </b>61/68 passing (90%), 2 chances created, 3/8 crosses, 2/2 long balls, 6 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 1 tackle, 1 interception, 2 clearances (1 effective), 0 shots blocked, 2 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Patrice Evra</span> (left-back): </b>59/64 passing (92%), 0 chances created, 0/1 crosses, 3/4 long balls, 1 successful dribble, 0 fouls won, 2 tackles, 2 interceptions, 6 clearances (1 effective), 0 shot blocked, 1 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Ryan Giggs</span> (holding-midfielder): </b>77/82 passing (94%), 3 chances created, 0/2 crosses, 8/11 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 1 successful dribble, 1 tackle, 1 interception, 0 shots, <i><b>1 assist</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* Anderson (central-midfielder): </b>58/68 passing (85%), 0 chances, 0/0 crosses, 4/6 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 1 successful dribble, 2 tackles, 1 interception, 0 shots</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Wayne Rooney</span> (central-midfielder): </b>61/69 passing (88%), 1 chance created, 0/1 crosses, 13/16 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 tackle, 0 interceptions, 2 shots (1 on target), <i><b>1 goal (penalty)</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* Nani (right-winger | substituted off 73'): </b>39/47 passing (83%), 0 chances created, 0/1 crosses, 0/0 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 1 successful dribble, 1 foul won, 2 tackles, 2 interceptions, 1 shot (0 on target)</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Danny Welbeck</span> (left-winger | substituted off 64'): </b>23/26 passing (88%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 2/2 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 0 tackles, 1 interception, 0 shots</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Javier Hernandez</span> (striker): </b>14/18 passing (78%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 0/2 long balls, 0/1 through balls, 1 successful dribble, 0 fouls won, 3 shots (3 on target), <i><b>1 goal</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> (left-center-back | substituted on 57'): </b>27/27 passing (100%), 4/4 long balls, 0 tackles, 1 interception, 3 clearances (2 effective), 0 shots blocked, 0 fouls</p>
<p align="left"><b>* <span>Robin van Persie</span> (striker | substituted on 64')</b>: 9/11 passing (82%), 0 chances created, 0/0 crosses, 0/0 long balls, 0/0 through balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 1 shot (1 on target), <i><b>1 goal</b></i></p>
<p align="left"><b>* Rafael (right-back | substituted on 73'): </b>11/12 passing (92%), 0 chances created, 0/2 crosses, 0/1 long balls, 0 successful dribbles, 1 foul won, 0 tackles, 1 interception, 1 clearance (0 on target), 0 shots blocked, 0 fouls</p>
<p align="center"><b>POST-MATCH QUOTES</b></p>
<p align="left"><b>Mike Phelan | MUFC Assistant Manager </b>(courtesy of <i>ManUtd.com</i>)</p>
<p align="left">(Overall thoughts...) "It is a little bit surprising that we have scored three goals here tonight. In the first half we were not really doing anything in the game other than keeping possession of the ball. Possibly with the way the evening panned out – with the lights going out and the heavy rain, and then us having to make a quick substitution, bringing Rio Ferdinand on – I think that changed things for us, with the tempo of our game going up."</p>
<p align="left">(On van Persie's impact as a substitute...) "Robin was instrumental in getting us further up the field. We played a little bit more in behind their midfield once Robin came on, and obviously he took his goal really well."</p>
<p align="left">(On already finishing top of Group H...) "Our intention this year was to get into [the knockout phase] very quickly. We were disappointing last year – the players and staff knew that, and I think the supporters wanted a reaction to that. I think it was really important that we got into it quickly and we have done that – four games gone and we are more than happy with it."</p>
<p>(On the last two group stage games with nothing being on the line for United...) "It does now give us that opportunity to have a look at a couple of other players on this stage, and I am sure we will do that, but we have to give credit to the competition as well. And as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> we will do that. But it was important we got the job done as quickly as possible, in order for us to concentrate on the Premier League."</p>
<p><b>Wayne Rooney | MUFC midfielder/forward </b>(courtesy of <i>Sky Sports</i>)</p>
<p>(Overall thoughts...) "There have been games this season where we've been fantastic and there have been games where we've had to grind out results. <i></i>Tonight we had a difficult night and we weren't at our best but we won the game and that's all we can ask. We've topped the group and that's the main thing. We're happy with that. We're in a good position and we know we can play better football. Now we have a run of games where we feel we can get maximum points, so hopefully we can do that."</p>
<p>(On United's qualification for the knock-out stage after last season's failure...) "We were disappointed to go out at the group stage last year so our target this year was to qualify and then take it from there. Thankfully we've done that after four games and topped the group. We're really pleased with that. Last season we had a lot of new young players come into the team and [Champions League football] is a different experience for them. They've gained experience from last season and the manager's given them further chances this season and that's paid off for us. Anyone can go on a run and win the tournament. We have to make sure we're at our best and you need to be a bit lucky in the draw for the early rounds of the knockout stages but we're ready and with the final at Wembley it's a great incentive for us."</p>
<p><b>Ryan Giggs | MUFC midfielder </b>(courtesy of <i>Sky Sports</i>)</p>
<p>(On United qualifying for the knock-out stages and topping the group...) "We were all disappointed [last season]. <i></i>It wasn’t good enough. We knew we had to do something about it and we have. We hope this continues now. We’re in good form, both in the league and the Champions League, so we have to carry it on now."</p>
<p>(On van Persie...) "Robin gets one chance and he puts it away. He’s just scoring goals for fun at the moment. With the form he’s in, his confidence is high and I think everyone knew he was going to score."</p>
<p><b>Jose Peseiro | Braga manager </b>(courtesy of <i>UEFA.com</i>)</p>
<p>(Overall thoughts...) "Once more we put on a great performance, even better than we did at Old Trafford. It's sad, a shame, for the players to feel this bitterness once more. We didn't deserve this, we deserved a better result. A match is also defined by errors, and unfortunately we have made errors once more. Against these kind of teams any mistake is punished hard. We couldn't allow counterattacks like we did and then they were efficient in scoring from the fewer chances they had. It's a lesson for us. We wanted to win the game and didn't deserve this result. I felt we could have got the second goal because United gave us lot of space but our final passes didn't reached their targets. Perhaps had it gone to 2-0 we could have taken control more. We only depend on ourselves and I believe we can reach the last 16."</p>
<p><b></b></p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/8/3616284/statistics-post-match-quotes-sc-braga-1-3-manchester-united-robin-van-persieGene Um2012-11-07T22:23:09+00:002012-11-07T22:23:09+00:00Recap: MUFC claim top spot in Group H with 3-1 win
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8Ec_tbFxcjshXIDTiSG2I47B_XM=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2840409/155719847.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Rose</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Once again Manchester United had to do it the hard way, yet three second half goals were enough to secure victory and ensure United finish top of the group with two games left. Braga went ahead early on in the second half, before a loss of power meant the lights went out and the game delayed for 10 minutes.</p> <p>There will be no repeat of last seasons embarrassment as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> have booked their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League with victory against Braga in Portugal tonight in what was a really weird game. A boring first half where United had one shot (off target) preceded a half that had four goals and a lack of lights, as the power went off and the players brought in from the rain for 10 minutes.</p>
<p>There really isn't much to say about the first half. No pace at all in the game. It was a real snooze fest. Somewhere, there was a wall of paint drying that was calling my name..... Braga were the best team in that period, forcing a couple of decent saves from birthday boy David De Gea and hitting the post on one occasion.</p>
<p>The second half was a different beast however. Braga took the lead from the spot after <span>Jonny Evans</span> brought down his man. There was not a lot the United man could have done, as he was run into, but as the ball was knocked past him, it was a clear penalty.</p>
<p>After that the lights went out. When the players returned, <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> took Evans' place and soon after that, Robin Van Persie came on to rescue United. He had help however. The Braga keeper came out to clear a free kick. He got to the edge of his box and was in no mans land. In face, he was in no mans no mans land. That was how poor his decision was to come out. Van Persie's eyes lit up and placed it home. The keeper got a hand to it but could do nothing to keep it out.</p>
<p>There was only one winner of the game after that. United poured forward. Rafael too had entered the fray at the expense of Nani, who was poor. That pushed <span>Antonio Valencia</span> forward too RM, after being deployed at RB. The Valencia/Rafael partnership worked really well down the right hand side and made us a lot more dangerous going forward.</p>
<p>The second came soon after. <span>Ryan Giggs</span> picked out a perfect pass to <span>Javier Hernandez</span>. The Mexican's shot was smothered but the ball fell to <span>Wayne Rooney</span>. Just when you thought his shot would be blocked, he instead shifted it right and invited the challenge. The referee initially let play go on, but the <strike>100th</strike> 5th official seemed to give it. After around 10 seconds the whistle blew and the penalty given. Wayne Rooney stepped up, fresh from his miss from 12 at the weekend. At first it looked as though he placed it beautifully. In fact, his left foot slipped, and in doing so deflected the ball into the top right corner. Fluke!</p>
<p>With the game all but over, and with Galatasaray beating CFR Cluj 3-1 the group was ours. That did not stop a third from coming however. Rooney found Chicarito in the box with a cute flick. He first took it round the keeper. He slipped whilst shooting. That was cleared off the line. He then swung a leg whilst still on the floor and somehow it went in. Made a meal of it yet the little assassin still scored. A weird goal to top off a really weird night.</p>
<p>Really pleased to have sewn up qualification, as well as top spot. That effectively gives us two free games to which give young un's experience and get players back in form and back to match fitness. I am sure <span>Chris Smalling</span> (went 90 tonight and played well) and <span>Phil Jones</span> will relish the opportunity.</p>
<p>Next up is an away trip to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> on Saturday. Make sure you join us for that. Night all!</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/7/3614970/post-match-reaction-braga-1-3-manchester-unitedRB19902012-11-07T18:45:02+00:002012-11-07T18:45:02+00:00Live Match Thread: Braga vs. Manchester United
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zcSA7Ypha95KGpGF2Lw-sAvIdoE=/13x0:599x391/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2801003/gyi0063885339.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Julian Finney</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>If you're not a fortunate Manchester United supporter in Braga, Portugal for this match, then join us instead in this live match thread. </p> <p align="center"><b>KO: </b>7:45pm GMT, 2:45pm EST | Estadio Municipal de Braga</p>
<p align="center"><b>LIVE TV: </b>Sky Sports 4 (U.K.), FOX Soccer (U.S.A.)</p>
<p align="center"><b>WEATHER: </b><a target="_blank" href="http://uk.weather.com/weather/today-Braga-POXX0008?fromSearch=true">Braga, Portugal</a></p>
<p align="center"><b>MATCH PREVIEW: </b><i><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/11/6/3608380/preview-sc-braga-vs-manchester-united">The Busby Babe</a></i></p>
<p align="center"><b>REFEREE: </b>Florian Meyer (Germany)</p>
<p align="center"><b>ODDS: </b>Braga 23/10, Draw 9/4, Manchester United 5/4</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/7/3612444/live-match-thread-sc-braga-vs-manchester-unitedGene Um2012-11-06T19:18:47+00:002012-11-06T19:18:47+00:0020 Manchester United players in Braga travel squad
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6qh6JmalIbOf1ddJ8dR3deS02ms=/2x0:3996x2663/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2774143/155063987.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Rose</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Manchester United have taken twenty players with them for their UEFA Champions League tie at Braga. Chris Smalling is included but there are few slight surprise exclusions from the midfield.</p> <p>Twenty players are in the Manchester United traveling squad for their upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture at Braga (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/11/6/3608380/preview-sc-braga-vs-manchester-united">Match Preview</a>). On an initial glance, the most pleasant thing to notice, perhaps, is seeing <span>Chris Smalling</span> on the list. The 22-year-old has missed the entire preseason tour and regular season thus far due to a broken metatarsal. This match might come too soon for him to start due to possible form and fitness issues but he will be able to provide valuable cover at both center-back and right-back. There were two slight surprise omissions from the travel squad as experienced midfielders <span>Paul Scholes</span> and <span>Darren Fletcher</span> were left back in England. The former hasn't featured in over two weeks for United while the latter has been a squad player since his return from illness but not a first-choice one. In midfield, it seems likely that Anderson as manager <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> has been wanting to get him games. Alongside the Brazilian could be <span>Michael Carrick</span>, <span>Tom Cleverley</span>, and/or <span>Ryan Giggs</span> -- the manager could choose a midfield duo or a trio. Here's the full travel squad for Braga:</p>
<p><b>Goalkeeper: </b>David de Gea, <span>Anders Lindegaard</span></p>
<p><b>Defenders: </b><span>Rio Ferdinand</span>, <span>Jonny Evans</span>, Chris Smalling, Rafael, <span>Patrice Evra</span>, Alexander Buttner</p>
<p><b>Midfielders: </b>Michael Carrick, Anderson, Tom Cleverley, Ryan Giggs, <span>Nick Powell</span></p>
<p><b>Wingers: </b><span>Antonio Valencia</span>, Nani, <span>Ashley Young</span></p>
<p><b>Forwards: </b><span>Robin van Persie</span>, <span>Wayne Rooney</span>, <span>Javier Hernandez</span> (Chicharito), <span>Danny Welbeck</span></p>
<p>Fergie has given a few interviews lately and they hint at what his selection choices might be. If one were to go by <a target="_blank" href="http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8228219/">this <i>Sky Sports</i> report</a>, then expect current first-choice duo of Rio and Evans to start as the central-defenders:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"The game in Braga will give me a chance to utilise my squad. I'll be making some changes. If we can get the win it's better, but we want to make sure we qualify first. If we do, it gives me options to utilise [Chris] Smalling and [Phil] Jones. Then we can make sure that [Rio] Ferdinand is fresh for all these games. I won't have to worry about playing him Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday. That's an important issue. I don't expect [Nemanja] Vidic to be back until Christmas so it adds back-up in that respect."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The United boss further offered these thoughts to <i>ManUtd.com</i>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"My team selection for Braga will reflect the game we play afterwards, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> away, so I’ll change the squad around. Think, for example, about the midfield options I’ve got. This is an area where some people say we’re weak but I’ve got Darren Fletcher coming back from illness, Tom Cleverley developing as a player, young Nick Powell improving, Anderson back fit and looking terrific, plus Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs. I’ve got heaps of midfield options now. In the wide positions I’ve got Ashley Young fit again, Nani and Antonio Valencia. Then I’ve got the strikers. My area of worry for a long time now has been the back four. I haven’t had great options so far this season in defence. There’ll be an option with Alexander Buttner – that’s maybe the one that will definitely happen. I’ll need to see how we are in terms of a centre-back pairing for that game. But away from home in Europe you really do need a bit of experience so it’s likely that it will still be Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans. "At right-back, Rafael’s fit and his form this season has been absolutely fantastic. So I’ll probably have the same or similar back four but I’ll make changes in midfield and up front."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Keep in mind, though, in midfield, Scholes and Fletcher didn't travel and Powell started Monday for United's U-21 side. At left-back, this seems to hint that Evra could be rotated out and given a rest and that Buttner will come into the side. However, it's worth noting that the Dutchman struggled mightily in the reverse fixture versus Braga and he was substituted off in that game. It's very possible that Evra goes again tomorrow night while Buttner is given the easier game versus Aston Villa on Saturday.</p>
<p>So Overall, expect the current first-choice back four with the possible exception of Buttner in for Evra. In midfiield, Anderson and Carrick seem likely with Cleverley and Giggs in contention. Out wide, Nani is one of the players likely to be rotated in as might Welbeck on the left. The latter is also an option up front with Rooney and van Persie possible to be rested. The in-form Chicharito likely starts as well.</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/6/3610094/twenty-manchester-united-players-are-in-the-traveling-squad-for-bragaGene Um2012-11-06T10:00:25+00:002012-11-06T10:00:25+00:00Preview: SC Braga vs. Manchester United
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rq-r0umOqvLCYxV3Wpl9dKud9j0=/0x0:998x665/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2745819/gyi0064792985.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jamie McDonald</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>An in-depth preview of Manchester United's upcoming UEFA Champions League clash at SC Braga: form guide, team news, projected lineups, tactics, TV info, referee appointment, and odds. </p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> can earn advancement to the knock-out stages of the UEFA Champions League if they are able to emerge victorious on Wednesday night when they travel to Portugal to take on SC Braga. The two sides met a fortnight ago on Matchday 3 when the Red Devils came back from an 0-2 deficit at Old Trafford to snatch a 3-2 win thanks to a Javier Hernandez's brace -- the second goal was a winning header in the 75th minute delivered from a delicious <span>Tom Cleverley</span> cross. The challenge will be a formidable one for United at Estadio Municipal de Braga as the Portuguese side have slayed the last four English foes they've faced on home soil.</p>
<p><b>MANCHESTER UNITED</b></p>
<p><i><b>Form Guide</b></i><b>: </b>United moved to top of the Premier League table last weekend after their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/11/6/3602396/tactical-analysis-manchester-united-2-1-arsenal-united-are-simply">2-1 defeat of Arsenal</a> and after <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/">Chelsea</a> dropped points at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/swansea-city">Swansea City</a>. The Blues trail the Red Devils by a point. In games that anybody actually cares about (league and European ones), Sir Alex Ferguson's side has won six successive games. They currently top their Champions League group with a perfect record from three fixtures.</p>
<p><i><b>Team News</b></i><b>: </b><span>Chris Smalling</span> is questionable but he's nearing a return. He's unlikely to feature, even if available. Captain Nemanja Vidic, defender <span>Phil Jones</span>, and playmaker <span>Shinji Kagawa</span> are unavailable as well.</p>
<p><b>SC BRAGA</b></p>
<p><i><b>Form Guide</b></i><b>: </b>Braga currently sit third in the Portuguese Liga table as they trail joint-leaders FC Borto and Benfica by three points. Since their trip to the 'Theatre of Dreams', Jose Peseiro's side have won their two league matches. They currently sit third in Group H of the Champions League with three points from three matches.</p>
<p><i><b>Team News</b></i><b>: </b>No reported injuries.</p>
<p><b>PROJECTING LINEUPS</b><i><br></i></p>
<p><i><b>United</b></i><b>: </b>There will be changes from the side that took on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://theshortfuse.sbnation.com/">Arsenal</a> at the weekend. How do I know this? Because Sir Alex said so:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"The game in Braga will give me a chance to utilise my squad. I'll be making some changes. If we can get the win it's better, but we want to make sure we qualify first. If we do, it gives me options to utilise [Chris] Smalling and [Phil] Jones. Then we can make sure that [Rio] Ferdinand is fresh for all these games. I won't have to worry about playing him Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday. That's an important issue. I don't expect [Nemanja] Vidic to be back until Christmas so it adds back-up in that respect."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson | Source: <a target="_blank" href="http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8228219/">this <i>Sky Sports</i> report</a></p>
</blockquote>
<p>With Anders Lindegaard's recent injury, David de Gea has been preferred in goal as of late but either is possible for this match now that both appear to be fully fit. Ferguson's comments about Rio suggests the 33-year-old defender will start and probably alongside <span>Jonny Evans</span> at center-back. <span>Michael Carrick</span>, after his difficult time in defense versus Braga last time, and youngster <span>Scott Wootton</span> are not likely to give Rio nor Evans a rest. Rafael, who has been heavily used these past few months, is almost certain to start at right-back but winger <span>Antonio Valencia</span> is possible to make a surprise start. Alexander Buttner had difficulties against Braga as well the last time out so <span>Patrice Evra</span> may not get a rest for this tie at left-back.</p>
<p>Ferguson has spoke lately of his desire to get Anderson more games and this is a match he seems probable to start. Alongside him could be any of <strike><span>Darren Fletcher</span></strike>, Michael Carrick, <strike><span>Paul Scholes</span></strike>, <span>Ryan Giggs</span>, or Cleverley in midfield. If a diamond is used, expect to see <span>Wayne Rooney</span> at the tip of the it ahead of three central-midfielders. If a winger system is used, then Valencia and Nani are in contention to start on the right while Nani, <span>Ashley Young</span>, and <span>Danny Welbeck</span> are possible on the left. Up front, the in-form Chicharito seems like a strong candidate to start and any of Welbeck, Rooney, or Robin van Persie could partner him. It's a bit of guessing game to ponder on what changes Ferguson will make.</p>
<p><i>*(update: Tuesday 8:00pm GMT) -- Scholes did not travel to Braga due to the simple purpose of giving the 37-year-old some rest while Fletcher also stayed back in England due to a cold. (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/11/6/3610094/twenty-manchester-united-players-are-in-the-traveling-squad-for-braga">20-man United travel squad</a></i><i>)</i>. <i>Ferguson further offered these quotes after the original publishing of this preview:</i></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"My team selection for Braga will reflect the game we play afterwards, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="../../../soccer/epl/teams/aston-villa">Aston Villa</a> away, so I’ll change the squad around. Think, for example, about the midfield options I’ve got. This is an area where some people say we’re weak but I’ve got Darren Fletcher coming back from illness, Tom Cleverley developing as a player, young <span>Nick Powell</span> improving, Anderson back fit and looking terrific, plus Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs. I’ve got heaps of midfield options now. In the wide positions I’ve got Ashley Young fit again, Nani and Antonio Valencia. Then I’ve got the strikers. My area of worry for a long time now has been the back four. I haven’t had great options so far this season in defence. There’ll be an option with Alexander Buttner – that’s maybe the one that will definitely happen. I’ll need to see how we are in terms of a centre-back pairing for that game. But away from home in Europe you really do need a bit of experience so it’s likely that it will still be <span>Rio Ferdinand</span> and Jonny Evans. "At right-back, Rafael’s fit and his form this season has been absolutely fantastic. So I’ll probably have the same or similar back four but I’ll make changes in midfield and up front."</p>
<p align="right">- Ferguson | Source: <i>ManUtd.com</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><i><b>Braga</b></i><b>: </b>For Peseiro, his first-choice XI has been revolving as of late. Beto is his No.1 and should be between the posts. In central-defense, the trio of Douglao, Nuno Coelho, and Paulo Vinicius are in contention for two spots. At left-back, Elderson appears probable to start but Ismaily is possible. At right-back, one of Leandro Salino or Carneiro Wanderson is likely to start.</p>
<p>In Braga's 4-2-3-1, Custudio and Hugo Viana are first-choice in the double-pivot. In the attacking-midfield band, Alan is nearly certain to start after his tremendous performance on the right while the likes of Ruben Micael, Ruben Amorin, and Mossoro are in contention for two of the other spots. The in-form Eder is the No.9.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://this11.com/boards/abDFZdrabJ.jpg"></p>
<p><b>TACTICS</b></p>
<p><i><b>* A review of Braga's basics</b></i><b>: </b>Peseiro is brave with his attacking 4-2-3-1 system-- as evidenced by being a rare side to have a go at United while at Old Trafford -- and he will instruct his side to keep possession, be bold in attack, and to press United when possession is lost. He certainly is not in awe of the Red Devils and he had this to say after our last match-up:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"We intimidated our opponent and put them back on the defensive."</p>
<p align="right">- Peseiro | Source: <i>UEFA.com</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Braga's full-backs tend to surge forward for overlapping runs, Custodio balances the team's shape by sitting deep in midfield, while Viana adds a vertical dimension to the double-pivot with both his long-range passing ability and his willingness to join the attack. Alan is industrious on the right flank while the other two attacking-midfielders in the band of three tend to interchange. Eder is mobile up front and will work the channels while his goal-scoring as of late hints at him being clinical with his chances as well. (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2012/10/22/3535846/scouting-report-an-introduction-to-sc-braga">A more detailed Braga scouting report</a> -- it was written, though, prior to the past match-up between these two sides).</p>
<p><i><b>* Which system will United use?</b></i><b>: </b>Ferguson likely has a good idea on what to expect from Braga but what can we expect from United? The manager opted for a diamond system in the reverse fixture and as this shape tends to be, it was exposed in the wide areas as Braga overran United on the flanks. By half-time, Ferguson switched from a diamond system to one with wingers in a 4-4-1-1ish shape and the Red Devils were much improved. What shape will United be deployed in on Wednesday night?</p>
<p>Because of United's troubles in the last meeting, a diamond seems unlikely. Ferguson could opt for either a 4-4-1-1/4-2-3-1 system -- like the one he used last weekend versus Arsenal -- or he could elect to use a slightly more conservative 4-1-4-1 shape -- like the one used at Stamford Bridge two weekends ago against Chelsea. <br>Braga have good technical ability and they can threaten you with pace as well. Ferguson could elect to sit back a bit, let their center-backs have time on the ball, close down in midfield, and then look to break in the wide areas when possession is won and when their full-backs are caught out too high. United are very comfortable playing this way and this could be the pragmatic approach away from home.</p>
<p align="center"><b>KO: </b>7:45pm GMT (U.K.), 2:45pm EST (U.S.A.) | Estadio Municipal de Braga</p>
<p align="center"><b>Live TV: </b>Sky Sports 4 (U.K.), FOX Soccer (U.S.A.)</p>
<p align="center"><b>Referee: </b>Florian Meyer (Germany)</p>
<p align="center"><b>Odds: </b>Braga 23/10, Draw 9/4, Manchester United 5/4</p>
https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2012/11/6/3608380/preview-sc-braga-vs-manchester-unitedGene Um