Manchester United FC have scratched out a victory against Copenhagen FC to reach the semi-final of the Europa League. The Red Devils had a truckload of chances but managed to score only one goal, mainly due to the heroics of the Copenhagen goalkeeper. Bruno Fernandes scored from the spot once again in the first half of extra time to secure a win for United in the one-off tie.
The Red Devils didn’t see a lot of the ball for the first 10 minutes as Copenhagen looked threatening. The Danish side had made it a point to catch United by surprising them from the onset. Fortunately for the Manchester club, Copenhagen weren’t able to capitalize on their chances as United came back into the match.
Once the Red Devils entered their grove, Copenhagen found it difficult to get a touch on the ball. But United players were again the culprits of failing against a deep-lying and stout defence of the Danish club. Fred, Pogba and Fernandes were unable to break the defensive lines of Copenhagen, who sat back and defended in numbers.
At the cusp of halftime, Greenwood scored a goal which was ultimately deemed to be offside with VAR intervening. In the second half, United completely dominated the proceeding as they moved closer towards the goal, hitting the goalpost twice. Anthony Martial had a great game but was unable to score the goal because of Copenhagen goalkeeper Johansson who saved 13 shots.
The Copenhagen No.1, with his 13 saves, made a record in the Europa League for the highest number of saves in a game. The Red Devils were finally able to break the deadlock in the 95th minute as Martial was fouled in the penalty box. The Frenchman was a menace to the Copenhagen backline as he dribbled past them with ease ad finesse.
With the win, United will play either of Sevilla or Wolves in the semi-final of the Europa League. Solskjaer has emphasized on the mentality of the players after such a hard-fought win even after dominating for the entirety of the game. The Red Devils still remain favourites to lift the Europa League and only time will tell if United win a silverware this season.
