A significantly improved performance was exhibited by Manchester United; however, the outcome remains disappointingly familiar. The Red Devils dominated their Europa League last-16 first leg against Real Sociedad, yet departed Spain with only a 1-1 draw, having squandered numerous opportunities despite their superior play.
Joshua Zirkzee put Ruben Amorim’s team ahead in the second half, capitalizing on an excellent pass from Alejandro Garnacho, who had previously missed a chance to score and later failed to extend United’s lead. A misfortunate handball by Bruno Fernandes during a corner, which was reviewed by VAR, allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to equalize from the penalty spot. Ultimately, United were fortunate to secure a draw, as Sociedad substitute Orri Oskarsson missed a significant chance from close range and was subsequently denied by a remarkable save from Andre Onana.
The upcoming second leg at Old Trafford presents an opportunity for both teams, but United will undoubtedly regret not establishing an advantage.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Andre Onana (8/10):
A passenger in the first half. Sent the wrong way by Oyarzabal but made a fine save to deny Brais Mendez and an even better one to thwart Oskarsson.
Leny Yoro (6/10):
Distributed the ball well and comfortable in defence, making several important blocks, including putting Oskarsson off at the end.
Matthijs de Ligt (7/10):
His aggressive positioning helped United take the game to their hosts and he kept the hosts’ forward line quiet.
Noussair Mazraoui (6/10):
Had a good grip on Kubo and Mendez but Becker caused him havoc when he came on.
Midfield
Diogo Dalot (5/10):
Had a lousy first half and should have released Hojlund when he was free. Made amends by teeing up Fernandes’ effort and then leading the move for the opener.
Casemiro (6/10):
Looked more comfortable back in the country where he had his best years as a player, making the most of the more pedestrian pace.
Bruno Fernandes (5/10):
Should have buried his chance in the first half. Was responsible for the team’s improved display overall but was ultimately to blame for losing the lead, even if the decision was really harsh.
Patrick Dorgu (6/10):
Gave a battling performance, playing on after an injury scare and delivering an energetic display.
Attack
Joshua Zirkzee (6/10):
Used his physical presence to his advantage. Broke the deadlock, albeit being bit lucky due to Remiro’s positioning
Rasmus Hojlund (4/10):
Another blank and another game in which he barely got into any good shooting positions, even if he was not helped by his team-mates.
Alejandro Garnacho (6/10):
A quiet first half but was very involved in the second, for better and worse. A fine pass for Zirkzee’s goal but should have done better with his two chances.
Subs & Manager
Christian Eriksen (5/10):
Didn’t get involved enough in his 12 minutes on the pitch.
Toby Collyer (N/A):
Came on in the 88th minute.
Victor Lindelof (N/A):
Made an important block and was an extra body to aim at from the free-kick.
Ruben Amorim (6/10):
His team’s best performance in two months but they should have left with a win.