The clash at Camp Nou ended with Manchester City securing a 3–1 victory over Barcelona, a result that gave them a strong advantage heading into the second leg in Manchester, where home support would only bolster their chances of reaching the semifinals.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, Manchester United had a far less convincing evening. Their quarter-final tie against French giants AS Monaco finished in a tense 0–0 draw.
Jean Tigana's Monaco were disciplined and well-organized at the back, frustrating United's attack. Though Ferguson's men looked threatening on the counter, they ultimately failed to find a breakthrough.
The victory against Barcelona felt like breaking open a long-sealed dam, unleashing a flood of attention and recognition upon Manchester City. Almost overnight, the club became a magnet for commercial interest.
