Full Time: Manchester United 2-1 CSKA Moscow
Manchester United retained their top spot in the UCL group stage as they managed to win their game against CSKA Moscow on Tuesday. Mourinho’s men were completely opened up when Vitinho put the hosts ahead in the first half as Akinfeev managed to keep his side 1-0 up going into the break.
However, goals from Marcus Rashford and Romelu Lukaku, in the space of just two minutes, helped Manchester United register yet another victory in Europe. It will give them some confidence, going into the Manchester derby at the weekend. Here’s how the Man Utd players fared on the night.
Manchester United Player Ratings
Sergio Romero (7)
His save late in the game is what that helped United to this victory but had very little to do otherwise in a game where his side dominated.
Victor Lindelof (7)
Happy to carry the ball forward constantly but was not under too much pressure from the visitors, who had a conservative approach.
Chris Smalling (6)
Was hardly tested by Moscow as he was quick to snuff out attacks and recycle possession for his side.
Daley Blind (5)
It was his mistake that led to the first goal of the game to show for a night where he was far from his best.
Antonio Valencia (6)
Should have been rested for this game so it was no surprise that Valencia was rather subdued in his approach on the right flank. Did well to deal with any danger down his wing.
Paul Pogba (8)
Will sorely be missed in the derby. His creativity allowed United to get back into the game and his passing kept the pressure on the visitors. An influential display from the Frenchman.
Ander Herrera (6)
Did nothing fancy as he won the ball back quickly and helped Pogba stay focused on his attacking duties.
Luke Shaw (7)
Was partially at fault for the goal but his influence at the other end of the field cannot be overstated. Encouraging from the youngster.
Juan Mata (7)
Was enjoying himself on the field, putting on a confident display. Helping his side keep the pressure on Moscow.
Marcus Rashford (7)
Should have scored early in the game but scored the winner, which would have beeb all the more sweet, to cap off a productive display on the flank.
Romelu Lukaku (8)
Involved in almost every move in and around the box before thumping home the equaliser. Played a role in the second goal as well and was easily United’s player of the game.
Substitutes:
Scott McTominay (5)
Was too eager to impress and failed to slow the game down after replacing Herrera, who could start at the weekend.
Alex Tuanzebe (6)
Was involved in most attacks in the last few minutes of the game as his fresh legs gave United an outlet from the back.
Anthony Martial (6)
Added some goal threat in the last 10 minutes of the game.