AS one of biggest and most successful football clubs in history, Manchester United has a massive global fan base. However, not every fan has had the opportunity to watch their favourite team play a game live in person.

That's the reason why the friendly matches the team plays in between seasons are a genuine treat for loyal fans – which is especially true in Malaysia.

That said, is it true that the club's legendary striker Ruud van Nistelrooy scored his first-ever goal in club colours right here in Malaysia?

Verdict:

TRUE

Yes, van Nistelrooy – whom some may say is the most clinical striker to play for the club – made his Manchester United debut at the Bukit Jalil Stadium in a pre-season friendly against a Malaysian selection back in June 2001.

The Dutch striker opened his scoring account for the Red Devils with a brace – the first in the 7th minute when he put the ball past the goalkeeper after a clever little back-heeled pass from Dwight Yorke.

His second goal – and the third for the match – came in the 36th minute when club captain Roy Keane put him through with only the keeper to beat, and he showed his class with a neat little chip to put the ball into the net.

The game was a real treat for the club's fans in Malaysia. It was also where Argentinian playmaker Juan Sebastian Veron made his debut and featured a strong line-up with legends such as Ryan Giggs, David Beckham (who scored the second goal), Paul Scholes and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the starting 11.

Manchester United won the match with a final 6-0 score.

Van Nistelrooy went on to score 150 goals in 219 appearances for Manchester United. Although his two goals – this being a friendly match – did not count towards his final goal tally, Malaysian fans will always have the fond memory of witnessing the start of his legendary stint with the club.

References:

https://reuters.screenocean.com/record/639297

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b80MR4uhrMc