Brazilian players Fred and Antony scored for Manchester United in what was a massive comeback win for the Red Devils in the second leg of their Europa League playoff tie against Barcelona.
United beat the Catalan giants 2-1 on the night and 4-3 on aggregate to reach the Europa League last 16.
Barcelona took the lead through Polish striker Robert Lewandowski’s 18th-minute penalty after Bruno Fernandes fouled Spanish left-back Alejandro Balde.
Erik Ten Hag must be commended for taking the bold step to replace Wout Weghorst after the first half.
United were lacking in pace and urgency up front and the lanky Dutch striker – on loan from Championship side Burnley – did not look good enough to deliver what was needed to win the match for the home team.
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Fred and Antony key to United’s victory
Antony’s introduction after the break obviously changed the rhythm of play and improved the quality of play in United’s attack.
Within two minutes into the second half, Manchester United levelled through an excellent Fred effort. The 29-year-old directed his low shot into the net after moving into space at the edge of the area.
The contest was then settled in the 73rd minute. Antony reacted quickest to score the winner after Alejandro Garnacho and Fred had their shots blocked.
Fred’s general performance was impressive and he showed why coach Ten Hag once said that any player capable of playing consistently for Brazil has to be a good player.
The loss means Barcelona are eliminated from European competition without reaching the last 16 for the first time since 1985.
What next?
The Old Trafford faithfuls will now shift focus to their EFL Cup final against fellow Premier League outfit Newcastle. United will be aiming to claim their first silverware in six years.
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