Ferguson apologized to fans for the loss to a second league club © EuroFootball.com

Strategist Sir Alex Ferguson apologized to the fans for the unexpected defeat of the team in the quarterfinals of the English League Cup.

The country's champions, in front of their own fans, lost 1-2 after extra time to London's "Crystal Palace" from the second league and withdrew from further competition.

"To tell the truth, I don't know where to start," said the Scot. "I apologize to the fans because it wasn't the kind of match that should be expected from 'Man Utd'. I really don't underestimate the opponents, I'm just very disappointed."

He continued: "I wish 'Crystal Palace' success and hope that this team will reach the final. Every player fought with all their might."

In the semifinals, the London team will play against another second league club, "Cardiff". "Man City" and "Liverpool" will also compete for a place in the final.