Was it ever really in doubt?
Every time Manchester United has shown any hint of vulnerability this season, the response has been immediate and emphatic. Tuesday's Champions League semifinal victory at Arsenal wasn't any different, as Sir Alex Ferguson's side was at its most destructive in blowing away the Gunners with an early onslaught!!
United's hopes of retaining its European title were helped by a slip from youngster Kieran Gibbs, who allowed Park Ji-Sung to open the scoring after just eight minutes. Cristiano Ronaldo's free kick moments later sealed the deal, and the World Footballer of the Year finished a brilliant move in the second half for Man U's final goal in a 3-1 second-leg win.
The only blot for United was the red card for Darren Fletcher, who'll miss the final in Rome on May 27. But Ferguson can have little else to complain about after Arsenal managed just one consolation goal, a Robin van Persie penalty.
For United, the English Premier League is all but wrapped up, so the Red Devils can effectively concentrate on their Champions League final preparation weeks ahead of time. It is hard to see anyone stopping them, although Chelsea and Barcelona (who meet at Stamford Bridge in the other semifinal tie Wednesday) may have other ideas.
United's domestic dominance from 1998 to 2001 was a truly spectacular run, but this current period of excellence both at home and in Europe is even more impressive. Share your thoughts and comments below on where this United team ranks alongside the all-time greats.
