Ruud van Nistelrooy scored twice as Manchester United recorded their first win in Germany for over 30 years.

Bayer Leverkusen - struggling both in Europe and at home this season - came back strongly in the second half after trailing 2-0 at the break.

Dimiter Berbatov's goal after 52 minutes encouraged the home team to push forward, but United held on to avenge last season's Champions League semi-final knock out.

Van Nistelrooy was particularly impressive for United before being withdrawn at half time with a tight hamstring.

Sir Alex Ferguson's team are now unbeaten in 14 Champions League matches and have one foot in the second phase after winning their two opening Group F matches.

Bayer Leverkusen began the game with a steely determination, running at United with purpose and aggression.

And their early thrust almost produced a goal but Oliver Neuville could only smash Marko Babic's teasing cross wide of Fabien Barthez's goal.

United contributed to their early problems with some sloppy passing and reckless challenges that invited their German opponents to attack.

But the visitors were dangerous on the counter attack and should have scored after 18 minutes.

United's increasingly frequent forward forays were rewarded with a goal just after the half hour.

A move involving Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Juan Sebastian Veron culminated in a deep cross to the far post, which Van Nistelrooy controlled with his chest and smashed through Frank Juric's legs.