Manchester United edged closer to the Europa League knockout stage after a late volley from Bruno Fernandes sealed a vital 2-1 victory over Rangers at Old Trafford. The Red Devils’ captain redeemed his side after defensive lapses almost cost them the game.
Match Highlights
United initially took the lead in unusual circumstances. Jack Butland inadvertently turned Christian Eriksen’s corner into his own net, giving the home side a fortunate advantage. However, the game took a dramatic turn in the 88th minute when Harry Maguire’s misjudged play allowed substitute Cyriel Dessers to slot in an equaliser for Rangers.
United’s response was swift. Lisandro Martinez found Fernandes in the box just three minutes later, and the Portuguese maestro delivered a low volley past Butland, securing the Red Devils their fourth consecutive Europa League victory. The win places them fourth in the group standings and within reach of the last 16 ahead of their final match against FCSB next week.
Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defence
- Altay Bayindir (7/10): A composed performance with several key saves, including one from a deflected shot by Hamza Igamane.
- Leny Yoro (6/10): Solid but conceded a foul that led to a disallowed goal. Substituted early in the second half.
- Matthijs de Ligt (5/10): Struggled with loose passes and defensive lapses. Scored a header that was disallowed and replaced at halftime.
- Lisandro Martinez (6/10): Distributed well and provided the decisive assist for Fernandes’ match-winner.
Midfield
- Amad Diallo (6/10): Showed glimpses of promise but failed to make a significant impact.
- Christian Eriksen (7/10): Orchestrated the midfield with precise passing and played a key role in the opening goal.
- Toby Collyer (5/10): Overwhelmed on his first start, leading to early pressure from Rangers.
- Diogo Dalot (6/10): Defended well and contributed when shifted into a back-three formation.
Attack
- Alejandro Garnacho (7/10): A lively presence with dangerous runs but squandered a golden chance when he hit the post.
- Joshua Zirkzee (6/10): Linked up play effectively but lacked presence near the goal.
- Bruno Fernandes (7/10): Despite mixed passing accuracy, delivered the game-winning strike when it mattered most.
Substitutes & Manager
- Harry Maguire (4/10): Missed a clear header and made a costly error leading to Rangers’ equaliser.
- Tyler Malacia (5/10): Contributed little after coming on.
- Manuel Ugarte (5/10): Worked hard but failed to make an impression.
- Kobbie Mainoo (5/10): Largely anonymous after being introduced.
- Rasmus Hojlund (N/A): Entered late with minimal impact.
- Ruben Amorim (6/10): While the performance was underwhelming, Amorim’s tactical adjustments delivered a crucial late win.
Match Summary
The victory keeps Manchester United in control of their Europa League destiny, though defensive frailties remain a concern. Fernandes’ leadership and brilliance proved decisive, overshadowing Maguire’s struggles. With a final group-stage match against FCSB on the horizon, the Red Devils will aim to secure their spot in the last 16 and build momentum for the knockout rounds.
