Manchester United defeated Rangers 2-1 at Old Trafford thanks to a goal from Bruno Fernandes in stoppage time.
"Another struggle" for Manchester United | Rangers lose due to Butland's blunder
Despite a late equaliser from Cyriel Dessers, Manchester United defeated Rangers 2-1 at Old Trafford thanks to a goal from Bruno Fernandes in stoppage time.
When he brilliantly beat Harry Maguire to score a stunning goal and cancel out Jack Butland's earlier own goal in the 88th minute, the Rangers forward appeared to have given the Scottish team a point, but Fernandes then volleyed in brilliantly to seal the win.
United rises to fourth place in the league phase with the points. Despite their Premier League difficulties, Ruben Amorim's team has won seven of its European games, and a victory over Steaua Bucharest on the road next week will guarantee a top-eight finish and avoid the play-off round. Rangers, currently in 13th place, are almost certain to be included.
How it took place
Butland, a former United fan, appeared to have given the game its decisive moment early in the second half by punching Christian Eriksen's corner into his own net, thus undermining his team's fierce defence.
However, despite Matthijs de Ligt's goal being disallowed, Rangers, who had the better chances in the first half, continued to push for an equaliser, which they eventually achieved through a spectacular finish by Dessers to the joy of the boisterous away crowd, but there was a twist.
Amorim's remarks over the weekend that this was the worst United team ever put the players under the limelight, but United showed resiliency by identifying the winner. The captain made no mistake after Lisandro Martinez's angled ball found him.
Rangers were treated cruelly, but it was also a much-needed spectacular moment for a squad that had lost four of their last five games played at Old Trafford. Of course, it's far from persuasive. But still able to provide joy to this ancient arena.
Amorim It was a good win.
Ruben Amorim, head coach of Manchester United:
"We didn't deserve the draw, I think it was fair for us to win the game," Amorim stated during the post-match press conference.
He said in an interview with TNT Sports: "We performed well. There was good speed and a greater connection with the ball.
"We made a few poor decisions that caused us to lose control of the game for seven minutes. We squandered numerous opportunities and came quite close to scoring the second goal, even when Rangers scored. However, we bounced back, and it was a good win.
"We are far from playing at our best, but we did get better from the last game.
"Everything is different, including the opponent and the speed. You can see it again, though, that they attempted. We performed well for the amount of time we had to train because of the connections, movement, and play.
"When the time is right, we must be more clinical. That can be really beneficial to us.
"Garnacho is getting better."
Speaking during the news conference on Alejandro Garnacho, Ruben Amorim said:
"I believe he is getting better at every part of the game. He played better today both indoors and out, switched positions, and improved his recuperating position.
"Until ninety minutes in, he is constantly there, helping and recovering, and occasionally displaying some frustration, which is good because he wants more."
"I believe he has the capacity to improve greatly in every aspect of the game. I can only say that he grasped my point, which was rather clear: I only want to assist them, but ultimately, they are the ones who carry out the work."
"No, I am focused on the games and he is here, he is a player for Manchester United," he said when asked if this would be Garnacho's last game at Old Trafford. He was really significant to us today; we'll see how he does in the coming days.
Concerns about injuries to De Ligt and Yoro
Amorim disclosed that both defenders had been substituted due to injury concerns, with De Ligt being taken off at halftime and Leny Yoro following shortly after.
"Matthijs De Ligt and Leny Yoro both experienced a sensation in their legs. We cannot take any chances.
"I know we have to win, but we have to show the players that everybody matters."
Clement: It's devastating for everyone.
Philippe Clement, the Rangers manager, said during the press conference:
"After playing that kind of game, I witnessed everyone in the locker room feeling devastated and upset that we had lost. I am obviously sad as well because I want to win and get the points we are due.
However, I am also pleased with the team's performance today, which included all of the younger players taking the pitch and adhering to the strategy. The team maintained its composure, organisation, and bravery when using the ball.
"We generated enough opportunities. We had the best opportunity in the first half. It is somewhat disheartening to give up the goal at the end because we continued to believe and play for the goal even after falling behind.