Champions League Power Rankings: PSG shine in matchweek 1
By James Dudko
25. Basel
Basel wasted the few promising openings they created at Old Trafford. The Swiss side were also too easily overwhelmed by United’s power up top.
In particular, the visitors couldn’t cope with substitute Marouane Fellaini’s brute force and aerial prowess. They also made Ashley Young look like a world-beater.
The 32-year-old converted winger provided the cross for Fellaini’s goal and tormented the Basel flank all night from left-back. A Champions League regular such as Basel should have offered much more resistance against United’s squad players.
When manager Raphael Wicky looked at the draw for Group A he must have been encouraged. But even if the trip to United was always going to be their toughest test, Basel need major improvement if they hope to get by Benfica and CSKA Moscow.