We learnt three things as Manchester United laboured to a 3-2 win over Omonia Nicosia to get a nervy second win in the third group stage match of this season’s Europa League.

Erik ten Hag took some great decisions by making key substitutions in the second half that earned United the win. After conceding to Omonia first, substitute Marcus Rashford got the equalizer early in the second half. Another substitute Anthony Martial slotted home to give United the lead before Rashford scored again to seal the game.

The second win for United takes them to six points from three games.

The Red Devils dominated possession in the first half and created the majority of the chances, attempting 12 shots. Ten Hag brought on Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford at half-time, both having a huge impact on the game. Manchester United secured an all-important win as they look to qualify for the knockout stages.

1. Marcus Rashford Could Save United A Lot Of Money In The Transfer Market

Rashford completely changed the game after half-time with two goals and an assist. Rashford passed the ball with 94% accuracy, including three key passes and one long ball. He also won two of his four duels and made one tackle.

With the England squad soon to be announced for the World Cup, the player has really made a case to Gareth Southgate. Jadon Sancho on the other hand made the mistake that led to the first goal of the match. He also seemed wasteful on the ball.

Marcus Rashford’s versatility has helped Ten Hag keep his formation intact and will save United from spending a lot in attack in the January transfer window. Rashford said this after his man-of-the-match performance:

“I think I can play both [on the left and through the middle], the left side is probably more natural for me. It’s a big positive to have [versatility].” [BT Sport]

Marcus Rashford’s game by numbers vs. Omonia Nicosia:

94% pass accuracy
3 key passes
2 goals
2/3 ground duels won
1 shot off the woodwork
1/1 dribble completed
1 assist

Made the difference for United. ⭐ pic.twitter.com/xaZbmnlLJw

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) October 6, 2022

2.  A Crucial Win To Stay In Contention For the Top Spot

With group leaders Real Sociedad winning at Sheriff, United were six points behind at one stage of the game. The win against the Cypriot side means that United stay just three points behind Sociedad with three group games left to play.

In the Europa League, the group topper automatically progresses to the knockout stage of the competition, while the runners-up meet the third-placed team from the Champions League in a play-off. United would obviously prefer playing lesser games to win the trophy in an already congested season.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo Continues His Wait For the 700th Goal

Cristiano Ronaldo had one of those horrendous outings where nothing went right for him. The five-time Ballon D’Or winner looked sloppy on the ball in Cyprus. Diogo Dalot squared a fantastic ball but Ronaldo’s shot came crashing off the post.

He has been wasteful in the three Europa League games and will have to prove his quality if he wants a place in the starting lineup in the Premier League matches.

He showed great intent from the start, ending up attempting eight shots, but with a shocking six of them off target.  He did provide the assist for Rashford’s second goal although it was actually a miscued shot. Ronaldo will be hoping to start against Everton this week.

Read More:

• Erik Ten Hag’s Ideology Slowly Taking Shape as the Red Devils Register Fourth Consecutive Win | Manchester United Player Ratings vs Arsenal
• A Disappointing Start to the Europa League Campaign With a Highest Player Rating of 6 | How United Players Fared Against Real Sociedad
• Arsenal Humbled by the Red Devils at Old Trafford | Three Crucial Lessons Learnt From the United-Arsenal Fixture

Ten Hag will be aware of the importance of winning the Europa League group while maintaining the results in the Premier League. After the Everton game, Erik ten Hag’s side will then play their reverse match against Omonia Nicosia at Old Trafford to keep their position in the group intact.

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