Manchester United have maintained their perfect record in the Champions League as they edged out a 2-0 victory against Benfica to cement their position at the top of their group table. It might not have been their best performance but they are almost there, as a draw in the next match will see them through.
Jose Mourinho won’t be happy with how his side performed in this match before the crucial game against Chelsea at the weekend. Mourinho rang in a number of changes with Scott McTominay getting his first start in the Champions League.
Riding on a Mile Svilar howler, the Red Devils eased their path to the victory. Anthony Martial got a gilt-edged chance to register his name on the scoresheet as he earned a penalty but Svilar jumped to the right side to pave it away.
Goals from Nemanja Matic and Daley Blind secured a vital three points but the gaffer needs to work on his side, which looked pathetic in some patches of the game.
Let’s have a look how the players have fared:
David De Gea- 7.5
Made a couple of good saves to keep United in the game. Despite Benfica’s dominance he wasn’t really tested this time.
Eric Bailly- 6
The Ivorian looked a bit rusty today and almost gave away a penalty which could have been awful.
Chris Smalling- 7
Looked sharp and confident. Defended pretty well and covered Bailly convincingly.
Matteo Darmian- 6
Did nothing spectacular as he remained in his own space.
Daley Blind- 6.5
Extra points for the winning penalty otherwise barely looked threatening on the left side.
Scott McTominay- 6
Started this game but needs to be a bit more incisive with his decision making.
Nemanja Matic- 8
Well drilled the midfield and his bullet strike bounced off the opponent keeper which gave United the much-needed. Provide balance to the game with his solid instincts.
Anthony Martial- 7
A constant threat from the left side. Managed to sneak in a number of times and could have had his name on the score sheet but saw his penalty saved by the keeper.
Juan Mata- 7
Tried to set up the attack but couldn’t make a difference.
Jesse Lingard- 6
Failed!!
Romelu Lukaku- 6
Another blank day for the big Belgian. Had a couple of chances but lack of confidence shoved him away.
Substitutes.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan- 6
Was a bit sloppy with the ball as he lost it a number of times.
Ander Herrera- 6
The Spaniard’s inclusion helped United with their forward movement.
Marcus Rashford- 7
Looked lively since he came on and also won a penalty to see his team cruse through.
