MOSCOW: Despite a crucial penalty kick miss from Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United was able to hold their nerves and defeat a tough Chelsea squad.

Cristiano Ronaldo opened up the scoring in the first half after a nice Wes Brown cross found him in the box. Ronaldo was able to beat Michael Essien and place a brilliant header into the corner of the net. Cristiano Ronaldo was very active in the first half with dazzling runs down the left and right wings. Michael Essien simply could not cope with Ronaldo’s speed and flair.

Chelsea was able to tie the game just before half-time after an unfortunate series of events. Michael Essien took a low driving shot from distance that deflected off Rio Ferdinand’s back right into Frank Lampard’s path. Frank Lampard beat Edwin van der Sar to the ball after the keeper slipped on the slippery grass and placed the ball into the back of the net.

Both teams were fairly even and the match went into extra-time. Near the end of extra time tempers started to flair, resulting in Didier Drogba getting sent off for slapping Nemanja Vidic. Television replays showed that the referee made the correct decision in dismissing the powerful striker.

In the penalty shootout, Chelsea had a chance to win after Cristiano Ronaldo missed his penalty. Captain John Terry stepped up with the game on the line. The English defender had the goal keeper going the wrong way but an unfortunate slip saw him put the ball into the right post and out.

After a few more players converted, the game came down to Anelka’s penalty. Edwin van der Sar guessed right and saved the shot from the French striker. Manchester United are European Champions!

Congratulations to Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo for a fantastic season.