Thomaz Oseghale
Manchester United edged closer to a direct spot in the Europa League last 16 with a 2-1 victory over Rangers on Thursday.
The first half ended 0-0, with both teams creating chances.
United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made an important save against Rangers’ Ridvan Yilmaz, while Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo missed close-range opportunities for the hosts.
A potential goal from Matthijs de Ligt was ruled out due to a foul.
In the second half, United took the lead in the 52nd minute when Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland scored an own goal from a corner kick.
United had more chances to extend their lead, with Garnacho hitting the post in the 59th minute and Harry Maguire missing a header in the 66th minute.
Rangers equalized in the 88th minute when Cyriel Dessers, who came on as a substitute, capitalized on a defensive error by Maguire.
However, Bruno Fernandes rescued United in stoppage time, scoring the winner from close range after an assist from Lisandro Martinez.
With the win, United are on track to secure qualification with a point against FCSB in their final group match, while Rangers still have an outside chance of reaching the top eight if they defeat Union Saint-Gilloise next week.
