Kolkata: Manchester United entered into the semifinals of Europa League as a 95th-minute penalty from Bruno Fernandes secured them 1-0 win over FC Copenhagen on August 11. The Red Devils will now face either Wolverhampton Wanders or Sevilla for a place in the final. The English giants won Europe’s second division competition in 2017 for the last time.
The defining moment of a tight #UEL quarter-final 📸#MUFC @GulfOilIntl pic.twitter.com/fCjh0elqmq
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 10, 2020
Though Copenhagen had a dominating opening half, they missed several chances before the Red Devils geared up in the second. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s boys improved after the break but could not find any ways past Karl-Johan Johnson whose brilliant work under the sticks — 13 saves — gifted him with Man of the Match. It was quite bad luck for Manchester when shots from Fernandes and Mason Greenwood hit the post while Marcus Rashford had a goal disallowed.
The winning strike finally came as Fernandes was able to beat Karl after Anthony Martial was fouled by Andreas Bjelland in the box. This was United’s 21st spot-kick so far this season a record in itself.
Finding a way to win 💯#MUFC #UEL pic.twitter.com/UWtEOx7qCt
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 10, 2020
Copenhagen looked for an equaliser in the last 15 minutes of the game but United’s defense, which looked trembling all the way long during the match somehow held out as the team secured a semifinal spot.
