Ronaldinho and AC Milan’s night could have turned out so differently had the buck-toothed wonder managed to steer a seventh minute header inside Van der Sar’s far post. As it was, the number 80’s effort went just wide of the target and the Rossoneri struggled to create a better chance all night.

For the rest of the match, the Brazilian playmaker found himself under lock and key from United’s right back Gary Neville, who made sure that Ronaldinho’s influence was kept to a minimum.

That said, Dinho was undoubtedly Milan’s most threatening player, particularly during the first half where all of the visitors goal opportunities seemed to be conjured up from the feet of Ronaldinho. Of particular note were his long-range passes, as the Samba king repeatedly fizzed dangerous passes into his teammates who sadly were unable to take advantage.

Ronaldinho’s match highlights can be seen here.

***

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2009/10 Champions League dream is also over this Thursday, but in truth the Portuguese forward was not the main person at fault for Real’s miserable exit at the hands of Lyon.

Ronaldo’s evening started in perfect fashion as, after just five minutes, he raced onto Guti’s lofted 50-yard pass to gallop into the visitors’ box and fire a low shot in between Hugo Lloris’ legs. 1-nil to Real, and it looked like the Los Blancos would stroll on to claim victory.

Ronaldo continued to impress in the first half as he lead several Madrid attacks, as well as entertaining the crowd with some fabulous flicks and incisive passes. Eventually though his impact waned after the interval as he received less of the ball out in his wide left position.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s match highlights can be seen here.