The Ali Sami Yen Inferno

November 3, 1993, is a night that still sends shudders down the spines of those who set foot in the Ali Sami Yen Stadium. Manchester United's journey to Hell began with threats, descended into mayhem and madness, and ended with the players simply glad to escape in one piece.

The Champions League Dream

Having ended a 26-year title drought six months earlier, Manchester United's goal was to conquer Europe in the Champions League. However, they didn't get beyond the second round, and their clash against Galatasaray on November 3, 1993, still haunts many a Mancunian.

"Welcome to Hell"

Galatasaray had proven themselves to be formidable opponents with a 3-3 draw at Old Trafford in the first leg. The return leg in Istanbul was even more intense. The "Welcome to Hell" banners at the airport set the tone for what was to come.

A Night of Intimidation

As Manchester United arrived in Istanbul, their coach was pelted with missiles, and even the walk to their hotel was menacing. Inside the hotel, a young bellboy drew his finger across his throat. The stage was set for a night of intimidation.

The Ali Sami Yen Stadium

The atmosphere at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium was unlike anything the Manchester United players had ever experienced. The match itself was a drab 0-0, but the real battle took place off the pitch. A red card for Eric Cantona, tunnel scraps with police, and a Turkish mob baying for blood made it a night to remember.

An Unforgettable Experience

For players like Paul Parker and Steve Bruce, who had seen it all, the night in Istanbul was an unforgettable experience. Parker was shoved down the stone steps by a police officer, narrowly saved by Peter Schmeichel. Bruce described the pandemonium and the hostile crowd that seemed to be against them from the moment they arrived.

A Lucky Escape

After the match, fans even pelted the bus with stones and bricks. It was pure luck that no one was seriously injured. Manchester United left Istanbul that night, vowing never to return. However, fate had other plans, and they faced Galatasaray again the following year.

Tomorrow's Match

Tomorrow, Manchester United will once again face Galatasaray, this time at their new Rams Park home. They must win to keep their Euro dream alive. The memories of the journey to Hell in 1993 may have faded, but the challenge remains.