Match-winner Harry Maguire showed his class as he declared that Manchester United’s first win in Europe this season was written in the stars after the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton. Maguire’s 72nd-minute goal kickstarted their Champions League campaign against Copenhagen on Tuesday night.
Andre Onana’s dramatic penalty save in the seventh minute of added time helped secure a 1-0 win for United against the Danish team on the night the club paid tribute to their departed legend. “It was meant to be. We were meant to win the game. It was a magnificent save and a win dedicated to Sir Bobby and his family,” said Maguire.
“It has been a tough week for us losing someone like Sir Bobby – it affects the club and the dressing room – but really pleased we could get the win tonight.” After Maguire’s header, it was Onana who denied Copenhagen’s Jordan Larsson – the son of ex-United striker Henrik – with the final kick of the game.
The win lifts United off the foot of Group A and puts them into the mix for the second qualification spot behind unbeaten leaders Bayern Munich. “I’m just doing my job – the most important thing is to win against a tough team,” said Onana.
“We are Manchester United. We are a big club with big players. It’s just a matter of time. Now we have to continue like this. I have no doubt we will make it.” United manager Erik ten Hag was delighted it was two of United’s most-criticised players who delivered the much-needed win but breathed a sigh of relief afterwards.
“You see the belief building in players like Harry Maguire and Andre Onana,” he said. “The first half was no good but the second half was better. We created more chances and finally the win was justified but it was a narrow escape.”
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United, who visit Denmark to face Copenhagen once again in their next Champions League match on November 8, face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City in their local derby at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Bayern Munich are surging clear at the top of their Champions League group with maximum points at the halfway stage but the race for the second spot is on with United breathing down Galatasaray’s necks after their much-needed victory.
