Manchester United came from behind to beat Barcelona 2-1 at Old Trafford in the second leg of the Round of 32 of the Europa League.The victory sends United into the round of 16 and Barcelona back to Spain empty-handed
Robert Lewandowski gave Barcelona the lead from the penalty spot in the 18th minute after Bruno Fernandes carelessly brought down Alejandro Balde. La Liga table toppers went on to control the rest of the first half with Manchester United lacking ideas.
Erik Ten Haag’s boys started the second half revitalized. Two minutes after the restart, Fred restored parity for the host and revived the energy at Old Trafford.
While Man United kept pushing for a winner, Barcelona were presented with opportunities to retake the lead but the lack of precision in the final third eluded the Catalans. Alejandro Balde kept finding himself behind the Manchester United defense but the young Spanish left-back failed to create anything meaningful.
It was the home side that would take the lead in the 73rd minute when a shot was deflected into the path of substitute Anthony who deftly found the bottom corner.
Barcelona manager, Xavi Hernandez made attacking changes by bringing on Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres but Manchester United showed resilience to see the game through.
The defeat ends Barcelona’s 13-game unbeaten run and Manchester United’s 4-game unbeaten run against the Spanish giant.
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