Mainoo secures United’s spot in the last 16

Manchester United secured their spot in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League with a 2-0 victory at FCSB, making it four wins in a row in the competition and sending the hosts into the knockout play-offs.

United started slow in a tough atmosphere in Bucharest, where FCSB had lost only three of their last 22 home group-stage/league matches in the UEL. FCSB had an early chance when Mihai Popescu’s volley from a set-piece went just wide. From then on, United took control, with Kobbie Mainoo having two good chances to score. First, his volley in the box was saved, then he missed when unmarked after being set up by Rasmus Højlund.

Despite dominating, United couldn’t make their chances count, while FCSB struggled to build on their early momentum, leaving the score level at half-time. In the second half, Amorim made attacking changes, and Alejandro Garnacho almost scored immediately after pouncing on a defensive mistake, only to hit the post.

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United kept up the pressure, and the breakthrough came on the hour mark. After a well-worked throw-in, Mainoo set up Diogo Dalot, who fired home at the back post. Less than 10 minutes later, Mainoo scored himself, finishing off Garnacho’s cutback after winning the ball deep in FCSB’s half.

The two quick goals were too much for FCSB to recover from, and despite some changes from Amorim, the result was sealed. United advanced to the last 16 as the only team to finish the league phase unbeaten, while FCSB will have to settle for the play-offs.

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