Rio Ferdinand makes throwback Cristiano Ronaldo post on social media ahead of Manchester United's UEL clash against Porto
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand posted throwback pictures of Cristiano Ronaldo on X ahead of the Red Devils' UEFA Europa League clash against FC Porto on Thursday, October 3. Erik ten Hag's side will lock horns with the Portuguese giants at the Estadio do Drago.
The player-turned-pundit uploaded three photos reminding fans of Ronaldo's stunning goal against the Portuguese side when the clubs last clashed in 2009. He tagged the Al-Nassr ace on the post with the caption:
"European Nights in Porto."
Manchester United and FC Porto last met in the quarterfinals of the 2008-09 UEFA Champions League season. The Red Devils had won the title the season before, defeating Chelsea in the final, and were looking to defend their title.
The first leg at Old Trafford ended in a 2-2 draw and the Manchester club needed an outright win in the return fixture to progress to the semifinal. Ronaldo scored the lone goal in that second leg, a ferocious sixth-minute strike from over 35 yards out to ensure United's place in the next round.
Ferdinand started for Manchester United in the game where Ronaldo scored the stunning goal. Unfortunately, they reached the final but lost 2-0 to eventual champions Barcelona.
Cristiano Ronaldo's long-range effort against the Portuguese club won the first-ever Puskas award later that year. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner became the first recipient of the prestigious award for 'best goal' in a calendar year.
Manchester United look to turn their season around against FC Porto
Erik ten Hag will be hoping his side can deliver a positive result against the Portuguese side when they clash on October 3. The Red Devils have suffered a poor start to the season, winning just three of eight games played across competitions.
In their last Europa League outing, they were held to a 1-1 draw by Dutch side FC Twente at Old Trafford. Ten Hag is under immense pressure and another poor outing would further intensify calls for his sack from fans and pundits.
It's pertinent to note that while FC Porto have been in good form in the Primeira Liga, they also suffered a 3-2 loss to Bodo/Glimt in their opening Europe League game. Thus, like United, they will be desperate for a victory this time around.