MANCHESTER UNITED put in a professional display against Real Betis to see themselves into the Europa League quarter-finals.
Marcus Rashford’s second half thunderbolt put the tie beyond any doubt and sealed a 5-1 aggregate win.
However, United did not make it easy for themselves early on, with Juanmi firing narrowly wide and Joaquin hitting the post in the opening 12 minutes.
United eventually grew into the game, but failed to thrill with a display often too slow and lacking in on ball quality – particularly in the first half.
The 4-1 first leg score meant Erik ten Hag’s side did not need to push the issue.
But it didn’t stop them being up for the fight as the game descended into chaos with a number of meaty challenges being thrown in.
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Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils.
David De Gea – 6
The usual distribution problems persisted throughout this tie but swept up well behind the defence whenever the line was broken or a loose ball created.
When De Gea he was worked with his hands he handled the ball well, claiming a number of crosses and making a strong punching save from a corner.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 7
The stronger of the two full-backs in both an attacking and defensive sense. Strong on the ball kept the attack down his side relatively quiet.
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A tidy but quiet display which once again reminds Ten Hag of his quality from right-back. Subbed after 75 mins.
Harry Maguire – 8
Replaced Raphael Varane in the starting XI and looked assured both on and off the ball.
The more combative in stepping up out of the two centre-backs, Maguire put in a number of handy blocks on top of an aerially strong display.
Lisandro Martinez – 8
A quietly good game for the Argentine.
Showed off a good range of passing and dealt with everything which came his way both when stepping up and sweeping behind Maguire, whom he berated at one stage in the first half.
Tyrell Malacia – 6
Tactical switch from Luke Shaw at left back and gave United a different option in build up by moving inside as an extra midfielder.
Most danger seemed to come down his side, and defensive output was generally far from stalwart.
Casemiro – 6
In the team following suspension from the next four domestic fixtures but was back in the thick of the action tonight.
He and Fred too often guilty of leaving holes in the United defence for Betis to play through.
Fred – 5
Endured a torrid time in the opening stages. Skipped past in dribbles on too many occasions and guilty of a number of needless turnovers, but retained his usual enthusiasm throughout.
Usually thrives in a chaotic game such as this but was a shadow of his usual self. Subbed after 60mins.
Facundo Pellistri – 7
Offered United an outlet on the right side and was effective with the ball at his feet despite the limited occasions this occurred. Handed a ridiculous yellow card in the 30th minute.
Responsible for United’s most dangerous chance in the first half with his volley striking the post. Overall did well on his first start for the club.
Bruno Fernandes – 7
Grew and got better as the match went on. Switched the play well throughout and was his typical tigerish self when called into defensive action.
Played in Rashford early in the second half but the Englishman was unable to finish before doing the same for substitute Sabitzer. Subbed after 68mins to avoid suspension.
Marcus Rashford – 7
Back on the left wing today. More reserved involvement in build up but looked sharp when on the ball in the final third despite missing a number of good chances.
Thundered home a sensational opener just seconds after firing a far easier shot miles over the bar. Subbed after 60mins.
Wout Weghorst – 6
Showed why he is important to this United side, dropping into midfield to help bring the ball upfield and make it stick up front.
Lacked quality with his play in the final third though, misplacing a number of easy passes. Was inches away from opening the scoring in the first half.
Substitutes
Marcel Sabizter (on for Fred 60mins) – 6
Almost added a second goal with a close shot in the area but saw the chance saved by Rui Silva.
Jadon Sancho (on for Rashford 60mins) – 4
Should have squared a chance for Elanga late on before fluffing his lines on the shot. Offside flag saved his embarrassment.
Anthony Elanga (On for Fernandes (68mins) – 6
Worked hard after his introduction and should offered an outlet as a left wing runner.
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Diogo Dalot (On for Wan-Bissaka 75mins) – 6
Simply coming on for fresh legs over Wan-Bissaka, but offered a more dynamic option at right back.
Victor Lindelof (On for Martinez 75mins) – 6
Introduction allowed Martinez a rest but with Betis seemingly out of steam his work was limited.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
