April 24, 2008 11:00 PM

SOURCE:
goal.com

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Scolari Intrigued But Not Excited Barça And United

Luiz Felipe Scolari believes that both Barcelona and Manchester United will not have been unhappy with the goalless first leg of their Champions League semi final and that scoreline was a fair reflection of the game.

Portugal's Brazilian coach watched the game from the stands at Camp Nou and was intrigued by the different approaches that both teams took to the match.

While Barcelona went out to try and find a goal from the opening minute, United set themselves up to do exactly the opposite and deny their hosts from finding that opening.

"I think the scoreline reflected very accurately what actually happened on the pitch between two teams that very distinct style, but both incredibly strong," Scolari said.

"There were not many chance on goal, but I think that both Barça and Manchester United recognised that there is another 90 minutes to play after that. This type of game may not be the best for the spectator, but the quality of the players is unquestionable."

Scolari may have been there for the spectacle, but he was also present to watch Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco and Nani, but was not upset that the former missed a penalty early on.

"They are things that happen in football. It is not the first time and it will not be the last that a top player misses from 12 yards out," he commented.

Finally, the trainer refused to predict which two teams would be lining up in Moscow for the final. "I cannot say because the four semi finalists are all very strong and they have show that in th first legs of the semis. The Barça and United match and the Liverpool and Chelsea games were so even that to make a prediction would be reckless," he concluded.