History on Man Utd side ahead of FC Basle decider

Manchester United have history on their side ahead of tonight's Champions League clinker at FC Basle.

Only twice have they failed to qualify from the Champions League group stages.

In 1994-95 they finished third after losing 4-0 at Barcelona and 3-1 against eventual group winners IFK Gothenburg.

United won their final group game 4-0 against Galatasaray and needed the Swedish side to spring a surprise by beating Barca at the Nou Camp — but the game finished 1-1.

They crashed out for a second time in 2005-06 after finishing bottom of the group, notching three goalless draws, scoring only three goals and recording just one win at home against Lille.

Alex Ferguson's men needed to win their final group game away against Benfica and got the perfect start when Paul Scholes gave them the lead after only six minutes.

But a diving header from Geovanni put Benfica level 10 minutes later and Beto fired in a second from 20 yards just before half-time.

At the final whistle, Fergie cut a disconsolate figure sitting in the dugout. Villarreal won the group and Benfica finished second.

Join the conversation on

Tribalfootball Store

Galatasaray S.K 2011/12 SS Away Football Shirt Made By Nike the 2011/12 Galatasaray S.K. Replica Men's Football Shirt represents the Lions with pride.

£34.99 Buy

Manchester United 11/12 Authentic Players GS Polo Shirt Made By Nike Official Manchester United GS Media Polo used by the Squad during Pre & Post match Interviews.

£29.99 Buy

Manchester United 11/12 N98 Anthem Jacket Made By Nike Official Manchester United N98 Anthem Jacket used by the Squad before match and traveling Sponsor AON Colour Black Product Launch 03/06/2011

£49.99 Buy

For players seeking a light weight and reliable choice, whilst demanding a fast manoeuvring and quick thinking trainer; the Nike Mercurial CR7 Flash Victory II TF Rugby Trainer ticks all the boxes.

£29.99 Buy

Mercurial Victory II FG Kids Football Boots Made By Nike Introducing the Mercurial Victory, a lightweight and reliable choice for players who demand fast manoeuvring and quicker thinking.

£34.99 Buy

Nike Jr Mercurial Victory SG Boys' Football Boot. Designed for revolutionary speed on the pitch, the Mercurial Victory delivers the ultimate traction, cushioning and control in a low-profile design.

£27.99 Buy

Manchester United 1968 European Cup Final Track Jacket Made by Score Draw Manchester United triumph 4-1 over Benfica in the 1968 European Cup Final at Wembley to become the first English Club to win t

£39.99 Buy

FC Barcelona 11/12 Authentic Players GS Polo Shirt Made By Nike Official Barcelona GS Media Polo used by the Squad during Pre & Post match Interviews.

£29.99 Buy