A crucial away goal from Henrikh Mkhitaryan put United in a firm place to qualify to the next round of the Europa League in Russia but the job still had to be done at Old Trafford.
United knocked on the doors throughout but Rostov made sure they gave something for Romero to work. A seventieth-minute goal from Juan Mata gave the reds a crucial lead and some breathing space. United held on convincingly thanks to a rock solid defence and an in-form Sergio Romero.
Here’s how United have been rated:-
GK: Sergio Romero – 7.5/10
Made 3-4 sublime saves and the very last play of the game too he had to stop an accurate free-kick to prevent Rustov from forcing extra time. He’s a very reliable back-up and is definitely upholding the manager’s faith.
RWB: Antonio Valencia – 7/10
His width provided another dimension to United’s attack and he excelled defensively as well. His crosses deserve justice.
CB: Eric Bailly – 6.5/10
Prevented Rustov from making breaks, made a few notable blocks and interceptions. He’s been a wonderful signing and time and again he only proves that.
CB: Chris Smalling – 6/10
Kept the flow ticking and had to resurrect himself after a bad day at the Bridge. He did a decent job as the captain today.
CB: Marcos Rojo – 6.5/10
It needed the keeper’s heroics to stop him from getting a fantastic headed goal. His zero tolerance attitude has been brilliant at the back for United. Rojo likes it dirty and he gets the job done. Another convincing performance!
LWB: Daley Blind – 6/10
His deliveries were inviting today and Rojo nearly scored from it. Subbed off early in the second half and was replaced by Jones.
CM: Paul Labile Pogba – 6/10
Tried a finesse shot that nearly beat the keeper. He was decent enough until he got injured. He needs to improve on his free-kicks though.
CM: Ander Herrera – 6.5/10
Great energy and anchored the midfield for the majority of the game. Clever footwork in the final stages to retain possession of the ball. United are going to miss him really as he’s suspended domestically.
FW: Juan Mata – 8/10
It was chances galore as Mata was weaving his creativity again. He stretched Rustov to every corner and his vision looked unmatched today. Got into a good position to score the winning goal. Man of the match!
FW: Henrikh Mkhitariyan – 7/10
His work-rate has been truly impressive and the Mourinho effect is clearly visible. Got pushed unjustly but his energy made him look like a standout performer today.
ST: Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 7/10
Made his presence felt throughout the match and was ambitious enough and kept trying today. He hit the woodwork twice but set up a nice goal with a cheeky touch.
