The game was equal most of the time and the Manchester team managed to put the Army Men under pressure only in the second half.

Nani’s diving header was saved in style by CSKA netminder Igor Akinfeev, and Valencia’s effort from outside the box rocketed of the post, before the Colombian finally scored the winner.

The Army Men had a goal of their own, but it was legitimately denied due to Alan Dzagoev’s offside.

"In the end we were the team that was trying to win the game and that showed. They seemed to be content with the draw," Gary Neville, the Manchester United captain, told the official UEFA website.

"Valencia was the most important player of the match as he scored the only goal. He constantly put pressure on the CSKA left-back with his pace and trickery. Nani did well too. We actually had a few good performers," he added.

In another Group B game, Wolfsburg and visitors Besiktas both failed to score, finishing their game 0-0.

Man United enjoy a commanding lead in the Group, with 9 points after three games. Wolfsburg have 4 points, with CSKA just a point behind. Besiktas are 4th, with just 1 point.

CSKA next travel to Manchester, while Wolfsburg are awaited in Turkey on Matchday 4, to be held on November 3.