Valencia's late strike sinks CSKA

A late strike from Antonio Valencia secured a well-earned 1-0 for Manchester United in Moscow. CSKA looked like holding on for a point before a fine finish from United’s winger capped a solid performance on the Luzhniki Stadium’s so-called plastic surface.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men are cruising through to the European Cup knock-out stages after making it three wins from three in Moscow.

Despite being without a host of regular first-team names, United dominated for long periods against CSKA and deservedly sealed the win as Valencia hit the target on 86 minutes.

There were a few nervy moments for United, notably in the first-half. Some slack defending from Nemanja Vidic allowed Milos Krasic to power a shot inches over the bar, but the visitors always looked more likely.

Paul Scholes and Gary Neville both went close before the break, and only a superb save from highly-rated CSKA stopper Akinfeev stopped Nani's diving header from breaking the deadlock shortly after the break.

United pushed forward as the game wore on and Fergie threw Michael Owen on from the bench as he sought a deserved winner. Though United's second-half dominance was interrupted by a Krasic strike ruled out for offside, the Reds continued to threaten and after Valencia saw an effort smash off the crossbar, he got his goal after meeting Dimitar Berbatov's flick with a fine finish.

The Red Devils have extended their run to eleven games without defeat ahead of the weekend's crucial Premier League clash with the wobbling Scousers. Roll on Anfield.

Full Time - CSKA Moscow 0-1 Manchester United
Attendance - 37,500