Casemiro got one over on old ris Barcelona as the former Real Madrid ace helped Manchester United secure a 2-1 win at Old Trafford. Manchester United came from behind to beat Barcelona 2-1 on the night and 4-3 on aggregate to win their Europa League play-off at Old Trafford. Robert Lewandowski’s early penalty had left Erik ten Hag’s team with work to do but his half-time change turned the game with second-half goals from Fred and substitute Antony enough to take United through to the round of 16 at the expense of Xavi’s Barca.
Robert Lewandowski put the visitors ahead from the spot on 18 minutes after Bruno Fernandes was adjudged to have fouled Franck Kessie in the area. After a lacklustre first 45 minutes, Fred’s strike put United level two minutes after the break. Then, Antony made a statement return from injury by bending in the winner on 73 minutes to hand United a historic win. United are the only club in all of Europe’s top five leagues to still be in four competitions ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final on Sunday.
Casemiro made 14 ball recoveries, more than any player on the pitch, and made 13 passes into the final third as he drove United on. The midfielder shared an image with his family from earlier in the day, after the full time whistle. He wrote: “I had a wonderful birthday!! Thanks to my family!! Thanks Old Trafford and @manchesterunited !! And thank you for all the birthday wishes!!” The midfielder’s message drew responses from several of his Manchester United teammates, plus his former Brazil and Real Madrid colleague Marcelo. Marcelo responded with eye-heart emojis, expressing his admiration for the Red Devils’ midfielder.
SOURCE: United In Focus
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