ISTANBUL
Manchester United came closer to securing their place in the UEFA Europa League round of 16 with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Glasgow Rangers at Old Trafford on Thursday, in a match often dubbed the “Battle of Britain.”
The first half ended goalless, with notable chances from both sides.
United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made a crucial save against Rangers’ Ridvan Yilmaz in the 10th minute, while Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo both missed close-range opportunities for the hosts. A potential goal with a header from United center-back Matthijs de Ligt was disallowed due to a foul in the box.
United took the lead in the 52nd minute after Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland, a former Manchester United player, scored an own goal during a corner kick.
In the second half, Alejandro Garnacho hit the post in the 59th minute and Harry Maguire missed a header in the 66th minute in close range.
Rangers’ forward Cyriel Dessers, subbed in for Nedim Bajrami in the second half, equalized the game in the 88th minute after capitalizing on a defensive error by Maguire.
However, United’s captain Bruno Fernandes delivered the winning goal in stoppage time, finishing from close range off an assist by Lisandro Martinez.
With the win, Manchester United remained unbeaten across seven matches and climbed to fourth place in the standings with 15 points. Rangers dropped to 13th place with 11 points.
The top eight teams in the Europa League standings will advance directly to the Round of 16.
