Solskjaer reminisces over how Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson reacted in the 2007 clash against Roma
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has once again led his Manchester United side into the semifinals of the Europa League where they will face off against AS Roma.
The Red Devils have faced off against the Italians six times in a competitive setup so far. They have won four of those games so far and are unbeaten in the last five games against Roma.
The standout fixture from history is the epic 7-1 thrashing that we handed out to them at Old Trafford in 2007.
The stage was the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. Roma win the first leg 2-1 and came to Old Trafford with a lead to protect. According to Manchester Evening News, Solskjaer remembers the game fondly, but mostly for Sir Alex Ferguson’s reaction after the first-leg loss.
It was the happiest the Norwegian had seen Ferguson after a defeat. Such was his confidence that his side would overturn the deficit in the return fixture.
“We lost the away game but the odd thing was the manager was so happy after that defeat, I’ve never seen him as happy after losing because he was so confident of winning the home game. Surreal experience, really.”
More of the same?
With the first leg set to be played at Old Trafford, a similar performance would ease our route to the final. However, there are no easy games at this stage and United will do well to be wary.
“We need to make the most of it, we’ve got a chance to go to a final. Today: well done, disciplined job, professional and not really under too much pressure.”
While we were impressive against Granada, the Spaniards posed little threat. The same cannot be said of Roma, who pack more of a punch.
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Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher, current members of the United backroom staff, started in the return leg. The former enjoyed a brilliant night, scoring twice in the process.
United will welcome two former players when they face Roma this time around. Both Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Chris Smalling are currently plying their trade in the Italian capital.
