Højlund’s Double Saves United in Europa League Comeback

Late drama in the Czech Republic! Manchester United battled back to snatch a vital 2-1 victory against Viktoria Plzeň.

December 12, 2024
8:52 pm

Manchester United finally ended their 20-month wait for a European away win, coming from behind to beat Viktoria Plzeň 2-1 in the UEFA Europa League (UEL). This victory marks United’s third straight UEL win and keeps their unbeaten streak alive, a feat they last achieved in the 2013/14 season.

The Doosan Arena set the scene for a chilly match, with Viktoria Plzeň hoping for their first-ever win against an English team. United’s rough record in the Czech Republic added to the excitement. Ruben Amorim’s squad controlled the ball early on, with Joshua Zirkzee providing some muscle up front but not creating any clear chances.

As the first half went on, the home team found their rhythm, energized by their lively crowd. United, however, posed a real threat on the counter, thanks to the speed of Amad Diallo and Marcus Rashford. Even with over 70% possession in the first half, the Red Devils struggled to make meaningful chances. Bruno Fernandes had the only notable shot before halftime, sending a long-range effort that was saved by Martin Jedlička.

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The second half started on a sour note for United, as they fell behind just three minutes in. A mistake by André Onana handed the ball to Pavel Šulc, who set up Matěj Vydra to score his first goal in six games against the Red Devils.

Frustrated by the slow start, Amorim made a triple substitution before the hour mark, bringing in Rasmus Højlund for a spark. The Danish striker almost made an instant impact but had his first shot saved. Moments later, Højlund took advantage of a lucky deflection from an Amad shot, poking in the equalizer in the 62nd minute.

As the game wound down, both teams pushed for a winner in a thrilling finish. Plzeň threatened on the counter, exposing gaps in United’s defense, but couldn’t capitalize. Just when it looked like the match would end in a draw, Bruno Fernandes took a quick free-kick in the 88th minute, finding Højlund in the box. The Dane kept his cool under pressure and scored the decisive goal, securing United’s long-awaited European away victory.

This result gives much-needed momentum to Amorim’s side, who are now looking forward to the Manchester derby this weekend. Meanwhile, Plzeň remains winless against English teams but can take pride in their spirited performance.