On the 24th of February, Manchester United will face Barcelona at Old Trafford(Theatre of Dreams) for the Europa League play-offs in the second leg of their tie. Last week they both drew each other in the 1st leg at Camp Nou.
Both the teams showcased end-to-end football and kept the fans excited and engaged till the last moment of the match. The 1st half ended nil-nil but Barcelona took the lead just after the break after Marcos Alonso scored a header from a corner. But the reply from United's end came soon with Marcus Rashford, scoring from a tight angle past Ter Stegan.
As the game progressed with the 1-1 scoreline, quite amazingly Rashford again went past defenders on the right side of Barcelona's penalty box and slashed a low cross across the face of the goal which went at the back of the net after unfortunately hitting Kounde's legs. When everybody thought United might have come from behind to win the match, in the 76th minute Raphina from a miss pass from Casemiro scored a blistering strike from distance to make the scoreline 2-2.
Even though both teams conceded 2 goals each, keepers from both sides were on top-notch form and saved both teams from conceding further. Raphina was definitely the stand-out performer for Barcelona as was Rashford for Manchester United. But the roles played by Gavi, Pedri, and Lewandowski for Barca and; Bruno, Casemiro, and Martinez for Manchester United can't the undermined. Barcelona had more possession and passing but that didn't stop United to play their game.
We know you definitely can't wait to see the return fixture and yet we have to wait till the 24th. Will Xavi's ball work or a rejuvenated United under Ten Hag will see through to the next round? Speaking of head-to-head stats Manchester United hasn't won their last 3 ties against Barcelona in the European Cup competition and winning at home this time would be a great redemption for them and a relief when they face next time. Both the teams looked quite equal but Gavi's suspension of the 2nd leg may cost Barcelona some midfield battles. Now it's time to wait until the match begins.
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