Igor Akifeev keen to avoid "horrible memories" of playing Manchester United

Akifeev keen to avoid "horrible memories"

CSKA Moscow goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev has said that he hopes his side can pull off a historic result against Manchester United and banish memories of failure from their previous encounter.

The Russians were 3-1 up at Old Trafford six years ago until goals from Paul Scholes and Antonio Valencia helped Manchester United save a point, a feat that Akinfeev is keen to avoid.

The 29-year-old told UEFA.com: "I have some horrible memories because they managed to draw after we led 3-1 and they created a lot of chances, I am not trying to diminish Manchester United's success in any way, but they had a very strong team at that point.

"Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney were there, Edwin van der Sar was the goalkeeper, a lot of stars, so maybe they got scared by the fact they were losing at Old Trafford. I think this will be a very interesting match."

The Russian international has made over 300 appearances for the Moscow club since making his debut in 2003.

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