Keeping the Dream Alive: Manchester United's Mission Continues

The return of the prodigal son sank Porto's ambitions of securing a semifinal place despite having the odds stacked in their favour.

Cristiano Ronaldo's thunderous strike at the Estadio Dragao against FC Porto not only put Manchester United through to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League, it also means United's incredible mission of claiming five trophies in one season, is still alive.

The Red Devils have already claimed FIFA's Club World Cup (CWC) in Japan and the Carling Cup which leaves Sir Alex Ferguson's men with the task of retaining both the Barclays Premier League and the UEFA Champions League besides reclaiming the FA Cup.

They will edge closer towards achieving this if they manage to defeat Everton in today's FA Cup semifinal.

However, in recent weeks United's form has dipped significantly. The Red Devils were looking visibly shaky in defense but the return of Rio Ferdinand should improve United's defensive lineup. Ferdinand and Vidic have formed an outstanding partnership over the last two seasons.

Dimitar Berbatov's name has been notable absentee from United's scoresheet in recent weeks.

The lanky Bulgarian striker had earlier missed a couple of weeks through injury but has failed to have the same impact at Old Trafford that helped him win over the hearts of Spurs' fans in North London.

The Red Devils have left it to 17-year-old Italian prodigy, Federico 'Kiko' Macheda to save their blushes in their last two Premier League outings against Aston Villa and Sunderland.

Manchester United have been drawn against bitter rivals Arsenal, in the semis of the European Champions League. The Gunners, who cruised past Villarreal in Europe, suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Chelsea in their FA Cup semifinal.

United should be pleased to have avoided high-flying Catalan giants FC Barcelona in the semifinals. United eliminated Barcelona at this stage of the competition last season through a stunning strike for United veteran Paul Scholes, but Pep Guardiola's team are playing what is arguably the best football played around Europe.

Barca's unstoppable trio of Thierry Henry, Samuel Eto'o, and Lionel Messi crushed German giants FC Bayern Munchen in their quarterfinal clash.

A section of the United faithful will secretly hope Chelsea manage to beat Barcelona in their tie, which will setup a classic rematch of last season's Champions League final in Moscow.

The Champions League Final, this season, is to be staged in Rome.

As for the Premier League, United are a point ahead with a game in hand and should make a hat-rick of league titles unless Liverpool or Chelsea take advantage of another slip-up by the Red Devils.

The chances are good. Can United pull off their Fantastic Five mission?