Manchester United Will Have To Beware of Jesualdo Ferreira's Triple Alliance

It was a brave move from FC Porto boss Jesualdo Ferreira to play three forwards against Manchester United in the first leg, but it was the right move. If they play like they did in that game, they will cause even more problems for United’s defence this week.

The combination of Lisandro Lopez, Cristian Rodriguez, and Hulk has led to an upsurge in form this year, and indeed the South American trio all caused problems for Man United’s back four last Wednesday. The three central midfielders also deserve credit, as they constantly outnumbered United and attempted to get the ball as soon as possible to find the forwards.

All three forwards will have their own roles to play. Lopez in particular will try to trouble the centre backs as much as possible. He is a constant threat when he has the ball, using his technical skills to full effect. The Argentinian has an impressive goal ratio in the Champions League, scoring one in every two games.

Hulk is still young but has great potential. His strength and build may be considered his key attributes, but also his speed, acceleration, and his shooting ability are impressive. He is very energetic and likes to run against defenders, which he showed last week, so Man United will have to prevent space given to the young Brazilian.

If you’re wondering, his real name is Givanildo Vieira de Souza, and he gained his "Hulk" nickname due to his resemblance to actor Lou Ferrigno, who played the comic book hero.

Rodriguez is somewhat different from the other two. He is not your typical goalscorer, although he did find himself on the scoresheet in the first leg. He tends to work the full backs with his pace and his trickery, and he will try to do that against John O’Shea. It was once said he “made the opposing defence cry,” and therefore is nicknamed "Cebolla" (meaning onion in English).

The trio will be very dangerous, and if given the space, can punish the champions, so Man United cannot afford to make any mistakes going into this very important game.