Manchester United secured a spot in the last-16 stage of the Europa League after a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the second leg of their knockout round playoff. The tie was evenly poised after a 2-2 draw in the first leg at Camp Nou. However, Barcelona had an advantage in the 18th minute of the second leg when Robert Lewandowski converted a penalty. United equalized early in the second half through Fred, before Antony scored the winner in the 73rd minute.
The result means that United won 4-3 on aggregate and progressed to the knockout stage. Barcelona made four changes from the first leg, while United’s only change was the inclusion of Lisandro Martinez, who missed the first leg due to suspension. Both teams had chances to score in the first half, but the game remained 1-0 in favor of Barcelona at halftime.
Fred scored for Manchester United after only two minutes of the second half
United started the second half strongly and eventually equalized through Fred. The hosts then took the lead through Antony, and despite some pressure from Barcelona towards the end of the game, United held on for the win. Barcelona suffered their first defeat in any competition since October, and they will now focus on La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Meanwhile, United will prepare for the EFL Cup final against Newcastle United.
