Sir Alex Ferguson: “That’s the first penalty shoot-out I’ve ever won.

“When we missed the penalty kick (from Ronaldo) we thought we were in trouble but I thought we deserved the win.

“We had the best chances. In the second half they had more control but in extra time we were better.

“It’s a fantastic achievement.”

When asked whether he thought it was fate, with this year being the 50th anniversary of the Munich disaster Ferguson added: “I think so. I think we deserved to win it.

“We started the British sojourn into Europe in 1955 and we deserved to get his trophy tonight.

“I’m delighted for my players. I think this has the making of my best team.”

Cristiano Ronaldo: “I feel very proud for the lads. They believe all the time. The lads deserve the Champions League. I looked forward to winning this competition - and we won the Premier League. It’s a magnificent season for me.”

Ronaldo shrugged off missing his penalty in the shoot-out, adding: “This is football. I don’t know what to say.

“I think we’re going to lose. I score the goal and miss the penalty. The worst day of my life.

“But the lads did the proper job and I feel very proud for them. It means everything for me.”

Edwin van der Sar savoured some personal redemption after losing on penalties to Juventus when he was with Ajax in 1996.