Europa League: Manchester United Seal Last 16 Spot With Dominant Display Against FCSB In Bucharest

 

Manchester United secured their place in the Europa League round of 16 with a convincing 2-0 victory over FCSB in Bucharest. 

The first half was split between both sides and went through goalless, with United struggling to break down the hosts' defense. There were a couple of scoring chances from FCSB but United's grip on the game remained firm. 

After halftime, Amad facilitated the opening goal. He found Christian Eriksen with a quick throw-in and Eriksen slipped Kobbie Mainoo into the box, and the youngster squared the ball to Diogo Dalot for a simple tap-in.

The second goal was a masterpiece of attacking football. Garnacho bombed forward on the left, receiving the ball from Mainoo before sending it back to the midfielder. Mainoo side-footed the ball home easily sealing a deserved win for United.

The win sees United end the League Phase in third spot, with an unbeaten record of five wins and three draws from eight played. For FCSB, the defeat means an 11th-place finish and the prospect of a two-legged play-off. 

Overview 

Initially, it did not seem like United were up for anything spectacular until a pressure build-up gave the Red Devils the desired lead. The first half was split between both sides in terms of performance before the tone changed considerably. 

FCSB had some incredible moments and nearly leveled the scoreline. They appeared to intend to catch their opponents on the counter which almost paid off. That was evident in Baluta and Birligea's moment when the SuperLiga side nearly got a goal.

United maintained their game plan, with Mainoo making more offensive moves by playing deeper through the center and Dallo remaining on the right wing. Having Mainoo in an attacking role was effective and he was involved in both goals, The midfield was solid for the United but when breached the defense was fragile.