Antony goal sends Barcelona crashing out of Europe

Antony in a warm embrace with teammate Lisandro Martinez.

UEL Antony goal sends Barcelona crashing out of Europe

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 23:04 - 23.02.2023

Antony scored a dramatic late goal as Manchester United came from behind to defeat Barcelona 2-1 and send them out of the UEFA Europa League.

Erik ten Hag's men produced a fantastic display at Old Trafford coming from behind to beat Barcelona 2-1 thanks to goals from Fred and Antony, wiping out an early penalty from Robert Lewandowski.

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How it happened

Manchester United set up to attack from the first whistle and it was obvious that Erik ten Hag had tinkered with the line-up that drew at the Nou Camp last week. Wout Weghorst was again leading the line but Jadon Sancho was stationed in the No 10 role. 

It appeared to be paying dividends when Bruno Fernandes was slid in by Casemiro early on, but his low effort was saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and that’s about as good as it got for the Red Devils in a discouraging first half.

Barcelona took control of the first half and got an early penalty when teenage full-back Alejandro Balde beat Fernandes in a foot race and was pulled down. 

Lewandowski stepped up to score his 39th goal in UEFA competitions since the start of 2018/19 and to put Barca ahead.

United produced an instant response after the break with Fred scoring the equaliser in the 47th minute. 

Fernandes played a fine pass straight into the path of the Brazilian, who took a nice touch before a swift finish that sped past Ter Stegen into the bottom corner.

Barca almost took the lead again through Jules Kounde, whose header forced De Gea into an eye-catching reflex save. 

The Frenchman was made to pay for his missed opportunity as substitute Antony pounced on a blocked shot from Fred, before showing impressive composure to curl home into the bottom corner.

Player of the game - Fred

United certainly put in a team effort but Fred put in an excellent display. He took his goal well and showed dedication and commitment in midfield. He made five tackles, one interception and two clearances in an all-action performance.

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