Anniversary of Old Trafford's Legendary 4-3 Thriller with Real Madrid
A Night of Goals and Drama
April 23, 2023
Today marks the anniversary of one of the most unforgettable matches in Old Trafford's recent history: the 4-3 thriller between Manchester United and Real Madrid in the 2002-03 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals second leg.
The match had it all: goals, drama, and heartbreak. Real Madrid entered the game with a 3-1 lead from the first leg, but Manchester United started brightly and took the early initiative in front of a roaring Old Trafford crowd.
Cristiano Ronaldo, then a rising star at Manchester United, stole the show with a remarkable hat-trick. He scored a stunning free-kick in the first half and then added two more goals in the second half to complete his treble and give United a 3-1 lead on the night.
However, Real Madrid fought back, scoring two goals in quick succession to tie the match at 3-3. The aggregate score was now 6-4 in favor of Real Madrid, but there was still time for more drama.
In the dying minutes of the match, Ruud van Nistelrooy scored a dramatic goal to put Manchester United ahead 4-3 on the night. The Old Trafford crowd erupted in joy, but their celebrations were short-lived.
The victory was ultimately not enough for Manchester United to advance to the semifinals, as they lost on aggregate 6-5. Despite the disappointment of not progressing, the match remains etched in the memory of fans as one of the most thrilling and memorable nights in Old Trafford's history.
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