It’s been almost two decades since Manchester United last played Anderlecht.

During the 2000/01 season, Sir Alex Ferguson took his star-studded side to Brussels for a Champions League clash that they lost 2-1.

United had already beaten the Belgians 5-1 in the first fixture in their group and the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, David Beckham, Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke were on course to win their sixth Premier League title in eight years.

However, they suffered a shock defeat against Anderlecht, which left their Champions League campaign hanging by a thread.

Future Everton and Fulham striker, Thomasz Radzinski, scored twice as Anderlecht pulled off a famous win.

But United did get a consolation through Dennis Irwin.

Andy Cole was brought down inside the box, leaving the trusted full-back to tuck away from 12-yards. Which he did - sort of.

The Irishman rarely missed from the penalty spot but, against Anderlecht, he got away with scoring an illegal penalty.

Irwin can be seen slipping, meaning the ball hit both of his feet before finding its way past the goalkeeper - something which is against the rules.

Irwin's illegal penalty

Take a look at the match highlights (Irwin’s penalty occurs at 1:20):

Luckily for Irwin and United, the referee allowed the goal.

Jose Mourinho will be hoping for that kind of luck when he takes his United side to Belgium for their Europa League quarter-final clash on Thursday.

The Red Devils are heavy favourites to win the tournament, with the likes of Lyon, Celta Vigo or Schalke 04 being the next strongest sides remaining in the competition.

But if United do get a penalty, Zlatan Ibrahimovic better watch his footing on the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium pitch.