MANCHESTER UNITED WIN EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

 

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Thousands of Manchester United fans are celebrating after their team clinched European glory in Moscow. In a tight, but thrilling, all-English Champions League Final, the Reds ran out winners after a nail-biting penalty shoot-out.

As United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar saved the final penalty at 1.35am local time there were scenes of joy and despair in the stands - but so far there have been no reports of trouble either inside or outside the stadium.

Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring for United only for England international Frank Lampard to equalise on the stroke of half-time.

Chelsea's 21,000 travelling fans endured seeing their side hit the woodwork twice and striker Didier Drogba sent off. Seconds after United became the champions of Europe for the third time in their history Sir Alex Ferguson said: "That is the first penalty shoot-out I have ever won."

In lashing rain triumphant captain Rio Ferdinand held aloft the biggest prize in European club football at the Luzhniki Stadium. The team were led up to collect the trophy by Manchester United legend and England World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton.

The 42,000 fans now face a long journey home - many of them will leave the stadium and be taken directly to the airport for either a joyous or subdued flight.

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