UCL:Man United advance to the round of 16 after Solskjaer’s exit, beats Villareal 2-0 to qualify
Manchester United moved into the Champions League last 16 thanks to two late goals against Villarreal in Michael Carrick’s first game as interim manager.
United, who sacked head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Sunday, returned to winning ways in the competition as they drew away to Atalanta in the last game.
Cristiano Ronaldo maintained his record of scoring in every game in this season’s competition when he lifted the ball over goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli in the 78th minute, after Fred had dispossessed Etienne Capoue.
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It was pure joy for Jadon Sancho as he scored his first goal for the club after 20 games, ensuring the victory has been sealed in injury time when he blasted a shot that went in off the underside of the crossbar.
However, they were indebted to goalkeeper David de Gea, who produced two superb one-handed saves, one in each half, to keep out well-struck efforts from Manu Trigueros when it was goalless.
Manchester United will win top spot if they beat Young Boys at home next Wednesday barring any results from the Atalanta Villareal game.