Friday, April 19, 2024

Juventus 1 Manchester United 2: Two goals in last four minutes seal stunning turnaround

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 7 Nov 2018

84 Views

Manchester United scored twice in the last four minutes to come from behind and secure a 2-1 away Champions League win over Juventus, cancelling out Cristiano Ronaldo’s stunning opener.

Juve appeared to be sailing through to the knockout phase as Group H winners after Ronaldo’s glorious strike, but substitute Juan Mata drew the visitors level and an Alex Sandro own goal completed a remarkable finish.

United appeared to have a little more about them than they did when taught a footballing lesson by Juve at Old Trafford two weeks ago, though the hosts still controlled the first half and almost scored when Sami Khedira hit the post.

After Paulo Dybala hit the bar, there was to be no denying Ronaldo’s sumptuous effort 25 minutes from the end, but Mata struck with a fine free-kick and then Alex Sandro bundled into his own net at the death, meaning Juve have not yet secured qualification.

United boss Jose Mourinho, formerly of Inter, subsequently taunted the Juve fans at full-time, as he walked on to the pitch and cupped his ear towards them – irritating Leonardo Bonucci in the process.

The win saw United close to within two points of the Old Lady with as many games to play, and two clear of Valencia, who had beaten Young Boys earlier on Wednesday.

Juve went agonisingly close to the breakthrough just past the hour – Ronaldo picking out Khedira in the centre of the box with a cut-back, but the midfielder’s first-time low shot hit the post.

The hosts were again denied by the goal’s frame early in the second period, with Dybala’s curling 18-yard effort bouncing off the crossbar with De Gea beaten.

Ronaldo finally ended United’s resistance just past the hour, however, racing on to Bonucci’s long-range pass and sending an unstoppable volley beyond De Gea after the ball dropped over his shoulder.

But things were far from over.

Mata, introduced for Ander Herrera 11 minutes from the end, equalised with a fine free-kick strike shortly after coming on.

And then Alex Sandro fell victim to Ashley Young’s wonderful free-kick delivery at the end, as Bonucci headed the ball on to his and into the net as Marouane Fellaini and Paul Pogba attempted to head in, United greeting the final whistle with joyous celebrations.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top