A superb volley from Arjen Robben helped Bayern Munich reach the UEFA Champions League semi finals on the away goals rule after a 3-2 defeat by 10-man Manchester United. United, trailing 2-1 from the first leg, looked on course to reach a third successive Champions League semi final after scoring three goals in the first 41 minutes. Coach Alex Ferguson surprisingly included Wayne Rooney, who was highly unlikely to play in the game due to an ankle injury he sustained in the first leg, in United's starting line-up. The hosts took the lead after three minutes through a powerful low shot from Darron Gibson. Portuguese winger Nani scored twice with a brilliant back heel and a wonderful shot in the seventh and 41 minutes to give United a commanding lead. Bayern's Croatian striker Ivica Olic narrowed the gap two minutes before the break after holding off Michael Carrick before drilling into the bottom corner from a tight angle. United had full-back Rafael sent off in the 50th minute for a second bookable offense and Rooney was replaced with John O'Shea shortly after. Bayern, needing a goal to advance to the semi final, piled on pressure and eventually scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute. Robben, who was left unmarked, sent an unstoppable volley past United keeper Edwin van der Saar. Four-time European champions Bayern will meet French side Lyon, who progressed at the expense of compatriots Bordeaux, in the semi final.
