Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever goal in the Europa League to help Manchester United produce one of the comfortable football scores of the midweek action. Jadon Sancho opened the scoring in the 17th minute before Ronaldo sealed the win from the penalty spot in the 39th minute. Erik ten Haag believes that Ronaldo needed the goal which was the 699th of his club career.
Man Utd player ratings
Starting XI: De Gea (6), Dalot (7), Varane (7), Martinez (7), Malacia (5), McTominay (6), Eriksen (8), Antony (7), Fernandes (6), Sancho (8), Ronaldo (6).
Subs: Casemiro (6), Shaw (6), Elanga (N/A), Garnacho (N/A), Maguire (N/A).
Man of the match: Jadon Sancho.
Managers Reaction
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag: “Difficult start, the opponent played direct and we lost too many second balls at the start of the game. I think when we found a better formation, especially over the left side, we began to play between the lines and scored a great goal. From that moment on, we dictated the game totally. The reason we have another clean sheet is that we were good in possession, but also because we defended really well. With Raphael Varane in there as the leader, he puts everyone in the right position, and he fits together really well with Lisandro Martinez. The two full-backs also did their job really well.”
“I’m really pleased with Sancho. Another goal and he scored already many goals in pre-season, now this is his third goal in the season. But also he was involved in Bruno Fernandes’ goal at Southampton. He’s doing well, but I think there is much more room for improvement for him because he has so many skills to bring on the pitch. So when he has more belief I think he can be more productive. Ronaldo needed that goal. Many times he came close, but he wanted that so much. We are happy for him and the team wanted to bring him a goal. You know that Cristiano will score a penalty.”
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