Marcus Rashford’s stunner against Real Betis was enough for Manchester United to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Europa League.
United are through on a 5-1 aggregate after beating Real Betis 4-1 at Old Trafford in the first leg.
In the first half of the second leg, the Spanish side looked more competitive and like a team that was ready for a comeback.
Manchester United failed to control the first half even though they went into the game with a goal margin advantage.
Early in the first half, Real Betis had their chance with Juanmi finding himself in a one-on-one situation with David De Gea after beating Harry Maguire, but De Gea proved to be a world-class goalkeeper with his excellent save.
Real Betis Juanmi got another chance to put the Spanish team ahead, but David De Gea was there to deny Juanmi of a scoring opportunity.
The Red Devils’ manager Erik Ten Hag seems to be worried that Real Betis are getting all the chances.
Before the end of the first half, Weghorst was close to putting Manchester United ahead after Pellistri’s strike but the striker put the ball away.
The England striker had been working hard to get goals, but they have not been forthcoming in recent times.
Rashford had a chance in the 18-yard box, but the Real Betis goalkeeper was quick to rescue his team.
In the 55th minute, Rashford missed a glorious chance to put Manchester United ahead, but he hit the ball aggressively, which tends not to pose any threat to the Real Betis goalkeeper.
Rashford put Manchester United ahead with an outside shot after missing one chance earlier in the game. The Real Betis goalkeeper had no chance of saving the ball.
The goal was Rashford’s 27th of the season, and he also had nine assists in all competitions.
Sancho had a chance to extend United’s lead, but the linesman was quick to raise his flag for offside. The English winger was in a one-on-one situation.
Real Betis had two shots on target from 15 attempts. Manchester United, who had 17 attempts, got four shots on goal.
Manchester United had 54% of the ball and 82% of the pass accuracy.
United had six offside calls and Real Betis had none. Manchester United have won their seven previous away matches against Spanish sides.
Real Betis had lost their first home European match since 1997-98.
What’s Next For Manchester United And Real Betis?
Manchester United will welcome Fulham to Old Trafford for the FA Cup on March 19, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
Erik Ten Hag is looking forward to qualifying for the semi-finals of the tournament, as he hopes to win another trophy before the end of the season.
Real Betis, on the other hand, welcomes Mallorca on March 19, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with the club’s manager Manuel Pellegrini hoping to forget the disappointing defeat to the Red Devils and get into the Champions League spot for next season if possible.
