"I thought Tevez was the outstanding player on the pitch," Fergie told ITV Sports after the game.
"I thought he was fantastic, our best player.
"I thought we had the best chances throughout the match.
"There was one in the first half for Wayne Rooney, and some in the second half when we were 2-0 down. That was when we played probably our best football.
"I think it was an open game, I think both teams did very well.
"The players have put a good effort in on a warm night and there were a lot of tired players at the end of it.
"I think it was a good, open game and both teams put a lot of effort in on a very hot night.
"We congratulate Zenit St Petersburg on their victory."