FERGIE’S FAWLTY Now United mustn't fail in Basel

MANCHESTER UNITED have a Swiss mountain to climb to avoid possible disaster in the Champions League.

United need to steer clear of defeat in Basel on December 7 to ensure there is no chance of them being dumped into the Europa League.

But even if they make it through from Group C, it is likely to be in second place — with the big guns of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich then waiting for them in the knockout stage.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frustrated boss Alex Ferguson said: "It makes it a bit harder, of course. But maybe the bigger game would suit us anyway.

"The opportunity to play Inter Milan, Barcelona, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich, you have to judge that this way."

Benfica have now qualified already, along with Real, Inter, Bayern and Barcelona.

DOWN ... Alex Ferguson

The Portuguese top Group C thanks to their Old Trafford draw — they have the better head-to-head record against United on away goals scored — and would expect to stay there with duds Otelul Galati visiting Lisbon in their final game.

That leaves United desperate for at least a draw with Basel to stay second.

Ferguson added: "We are in the situation of finishing second, because I am sure Benfica will win that match. The chips are down."

A fourth-minute Phil Jones own-goal put United on the back foot.

Dimitar Berbatov levelled with his first Champions League goal in three years before Darren Fletcher made it 2-1 on 59 minutes.

But Benfica equalised within two minutes through Pablo Aimar, after a poor clearance by David De Gea.

Ferguson declared: "We did not deserve what happened. We played terrific football.

"I have no fault with my players. It is a cruel game at times and it was cruel for us here."