Home>News Center>Sports
         
 

Barthez off as Valencia clinch UEFA
(sportinglife.com)
Updated: 2004-05-20 16:05

Fabien Barthez was sent off as Valencia claimed the UEFA Cup with a 2-0 victory over Marseille in Gothenburg on Wednesday night.


Valencia's team coach Rafael Benitez holds the UEFA Cup after wining the final match 2-0 against Olympique Marseille's in Gothenburg May 19, 2004. [Reuters]

The former Manchester United keeper saw red for a cynical 45th-minute challenge on Mista which enabled Vicente to set the Spaniards on their way to victory from the spot.

Mista put Valencia further ahead with a crashing 58th-minute second after a superb right-wing cross from Vicente.

The striker chested the ball down before hitting an unstoppable right-foot shot past substitute keeper Jeremy Gavanon from 12 yards.

Mista's strike effectively ended any hopes Marseille had of adding to their 1993 European Cup success.

Striker Didier Drogba was allowed few opportunities to add to his 11 goals in the competition this season.

His best chance came in the 65th minute as the French at least refused to give in without a fight.

Victorious coach Rafael Benitez, speaking immediately after the final whistle, told TVE television: "This prize is for all the fans who made the trip. It has been really worth the effort for them.

"The penalty was the key to deciding the game. We said last night we could not let this final escape us."

 
  Today's Top News     Top Sports News
 

Authorities to monitor price shifts before rate decision

 

   
 

Official: China can feed its own people

 

   
 

Shanxi mine blasts kill 24, trap 23 others

 

   
 

Experts: Mainland has seen through Chen

 

   
 

US attacks wedding party, kills 41 Iraqis

 

   
 

New photos depict Iraqi prisoner abuses

 

   
  Jordan still wants to own club
   
  Fans upset over Jordan's no-show
   
  Nets relaxed ahead of Game 7 with Pistons
   
  Garnett helps T-Wolves eliminate Kings
   
  Heat off Pacers as they await next team
   
  Barthez off as Valencia clinch UEFA
   
 
  Go to Another Section  
 
 
  Story Tools  
   
Advertisement