How many times has Manchester United won the Intercontinental Cup?

The Intercontinental Cup, a now-discontinued tournament that once crowned the top club football team in the world, holds a unique place in Manchester United's history. This competition, featuring the champions of Europe and South America, provided both heartbreak and triumph for the Red Devils. Their Intercontinental Cup story unfolds in two distinct chapters: the disappointment of 1968 and the elation of 1999.

1968: A bitter pill to swallow

In 1968, fresh off their European Cup victory, Manchester United faced Argentina's Estudiantes de La Plata for the Intercontinental Cup title. Boasting legendary names like George Best, Bobby Charlton, and Denis Law, United were heavily favored. However, they encountered a determined Estudiantes side and a hostile atmosphere in Buenos Aires. The first leg, played at Boca Juniors' stadium, resulted in a 1-0 defeat for United, with Marcos Conigliaro scoring the lone goal. The return leg at Old Trafford ended in a 1-1 draw (Best and Juan Ramón Verón scoring), handing Estudiantes the championship with a 2-1 aggregate victory.

Redemption in Tokyo

Thirty-one years later, Manchester United had another shot at Intercontinental Cup glory, this time as UEFA Champions League winners. Their opponents were Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras, featuring stars like Rivaldo and Alex. The final, held in Tokyo, was a closely contested affair. Roy Keane's first-half strike proved to be the difference, securing United's first Intercontinental Cup title. This victory marked a significant milestone for Sir Alex Ferguson's squad, a team brimming with talent such as David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, and Paul Scholes.

Key figures and lasting impact

Manchester United's Intercontinental Cup journey showcased the brilliance of several iconic players. The 1968 team featured the dazzling skills of George Best, the elegant midfield play of Bobby Charlton, and the predatory instincts of Denis Law. The triumphant 1999 side was led by the tactical genius of Sir Alex Ferguson and starred players like David Beckham, renowned for his pinpoint passing and set-piece expertise, the electrifying winger Ryan Giggs, and the commanding presence of Roy Keane in midfield.

While the 1968 defeat served as a learning experience, the 1999 victory solidified Manchester United's status as a global football powerhouse. The Intercontinental Cup, though no longer played, remains a cherished part of football history, and Manchester United's two-chapter story within it reflects the club's resilience and pursuit of excellence.

What you should know about Manchester United's Intercontinental Cup:

• Appearances: 2 (1968, 1999)
• 1968: Lost to Estudiantes de La Plata (Argentina)
• 1999: Defeated Palmeiras (Brazil)
• Key Players: George Best, Bobby Charlton, Denis Law, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Roy Keane
• Significance: The 1999 victory cemented Manchester United's place among the world's elite clubs.