The most criticised players in Manchester United, Andre Onana and Harry Maguire, were the unlikely heroes as Manchester United scurried to a narrow 1-0 win over FC Copenhagen at Old Trafford, MySportDab reports
It was a in-or-out game for the Red Devils after losing their first two matches against Bayern Munich and Galatasaray, respectively.
A point from a possible nine would have put Manchester United on a disadvantage to qualify from the group hence they needed to stay in contention for a place in the knockout stages with nothing less from a win.
After a barren first half draw, United improved performance in the second half but they needed a late header from Harry Maguire to finally nail home the lead after missing clearcut chances.
United had chances to double the lead but could not make it count and they nearly pay dearly after conceding a penalty deep into extra time.
With just few seconds of stoppage-time left, Andre Onana mounted the goal line with Manchester United Champions League fate in his hands.
And it was a celebration galore for Man United players and fans aa the Cameroonian shot-stopper rolled back his dismal start to his Manchester United career to produce a last-gasp save that keep United on track for a spot in the knockout.
Onana perfectly read Jordan Laarson’s move and dived to the left to point out the spotkick and preserve Manchester United’s lead.
It was another big moment for the Red Devils as they secured the much-needed win to go third on the group.
Reacting to the big win after the game, Andre Onana said it was his duty to save Laarson’s strike and he needed no commendation.
Speaking with TNT presenter, he said;
“I was just doing my job,” he told TNT Football. “It was important for us to win against a very tough team. I am happy for the victory, we did a very good game. I am very happy and we have to continue like that,” he added.
Also, Harry Maguire who scored the winning goal for the Red Devils was obviously happy with the game and hailed his teammates for the great performance especially in the second half of the game.
"I'm really proud and pleased the way I've acted over the last 6 to 12 months…"
Harry Maguire and André Onana react to Man Utd's dramatic #UCL win pic.twitter.com/21IaT9dtYZ
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 24, 2023
Manchester United will travel to Denmark to take on FC Copenhagen in return leg in their next Champions League fixture.