Mainoo shines as Man Utd defeats FCSB to guarantee a berth in the round of sixteen.
Kobbie Mainoo scored one goal and provided an assist to help Ruben Amorim’s team defeat FCSB.
Sending Man Utd defeats FCSB directly to the Europa League last 16.
Following a rather dull first half in Bucharest. Mainoo’s low pass found wing-back Diogo Dalot. Who easily put United ahead after going unmarked at the back post.
Alejandro Garnacho’s cutback was side-footed home by the England midfielder eight minutes later, putting him on the scoresheet.
Mainoo, who had not scored since United’s victory in the FA Cup final the previous season, repaid Amorim’s decision to play him in a more forward position with his first goal of the year.
After full-time, the 19-year-old told TNT Sports, “I enjoyed it.” “I am simply delighted to be playing for Manchester United.”
The visitors will play one of Real Sociedad, Galatasaray, AZ Alkmaar, or FC Midtjylland in a last-16 match in March after finishing third in the league portion of the competition.
After the game, Amorim stated that it would be “very crucial” to avoid a two-leg play-off round in February so that his players would have more time to “establish connections” and train.
following a somewhat forgettable first half, Manchester United picked up the pace following the restart in Romania.
At halftime, Amorim brought on left wing-back Tyrell Malacia and defensive midfielder Toby Collyer.
Who had been resting strikers.
After a defensive blunder gave Garnacho the opportunity to score, he struck the post a minute and twenty seconds later.
The Red Devils appeared considerably more formidable. And Bruno Fernandes quickly found enough room to rattle a long-range shot against the crossbar.
FCSB’s defense broke down as the visitors pressed forward through their wing-backs. Mainoo’s cross in the 60th minute was tapped in by an. Overlapping Dalot who was in the right spot at the right time.
Fine wide play also contributed to United’s second goal, as Garnacho got to the byeline before setting up teenager Mainoo.
Casemiro, an out-of-favor midfielder, had his first United appearance since December 30 in the 72nd minute.
Shortly after United’s first goal, FCSB had a chance and rang the crossbar through Daniel Birligea.
In the first half, Mihai Popescu also nearly converted a wide free kick from Risto Radunovic.
However, those assaults were uncommon. United has always appeared to be in charge and is the only team still. Undefeated in a competition where the winner receives a Champions League spot.
