The Three key factors in the Man United v Real Madrid match

The World's eyes will be focussed on Man United v Real Madrid at Old Trafford tomorrow in the Champions League last 16 second leg.

The tie is expected to capture the imagination of all supporters, even the neutral, as they anticipate a dramatic finish to a finally poised two legged affair currently at 1-1. Where will be the game won and lost though?

Can Ronaldo be neutralised?

It is the leading question going into this tie. Barcelona were unable to solve this conundrum as Real counter attacked with blistering pace. There is the expectation that Madrid will produce a carbon copy of their recent 3-1 win at Camp Nou.

The king pin to this style of play is Cristiano Ronaldo and if Man United can stop his threat and sting countering forages forward of their own, then the tie could be theirs. Who better to know how the Portuguese international will damage Manchester United too than the man that made him a legend Sir Alex Ferguson?

Rooney/Van Persie threat

The combination has been lethal in the Premier League. The talismanic Dutchman has made a crucial impact but can they replicate it against arguably the World’s most in form team at the moment.

Hernandez and Welbeck are clearly the support cast at the moment and if Man United are to take this game by the scruff of the next they need their leading stellar names on point.

Concentration/Fitness

These two may be seen as two separate matters by some but as the game wears on tomorrow there may be weary legs in both sides. One mistake could make all the difference.

There have been intense schedules for Man United and Real Madrid but for those where the big stage is new for them will need to be on guard as this game is likely to be settled in the last 15 minutes.

Follow @GrantMilesFF