Sudden Call from Brazil

Not only Beckham, but Ferguson was also smiling—applauding his players' performance. Everything seemed to be falling back into place, returning to the familiar rhythm of the Red Devils, Manchester United.

Just moments into the second half, United had scored, overturning a disastrous two-goal deficit. With nearly forty minutes left to play, Ferguson made the first substitution.

Cantona, who had been largely invisible in the first half, was taken off for Scholes. Watching from the touchline, Robertson noticed Ferguson giving Scholes detailed tactical instructions. He understood immediately—Ferguson was looking to stabilize the tempo of the game.

Now that United held the lead, it was City who would be feeling the pressure. Bringing on Scholes added control in midfield, and with United's defense reinforced, Scholes could also serve as a lethal outlet for quick counterattacks.