Europa League: Man United Steamroll AS Roma 6-2
Arsenal lose 1-2 to Villarreal in Spain
Peep peep! And Manchester United’s semi-final hoodoo should be over. Indeed, it should after a crushing and slightly surreal victory over Italian side, AS Roma in their Europa League semi-final clash at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer picked an experienced team in order to deal with the threat of the visitors and he was richly rewarded with an all-star display that ended: Manchester United 6-2 Roma
However, United fans may never get to show their appreciation for Edinson Cavani but the Uruguayan is ensuring that he leaves his mark even if he does depart this summer.
The 34-year-old striker scored twice and provided another two assists in a world-class display as United demolished Roma in the first leg tie and it is clear why Coach Solskjaer is so desperate to keep him at the club beyond the end of this season.
The Red Devils were 2-1 down at the break but then overwhelmed an injury-hit Roma in the second half. Bruno Fernandes and Cavani scored two apiece before Paul Pogba and Mason Greenwood gave United an unimaginable cushion ahead of the second leg encounter.
As good as United were in the second half, the penalty decision for their fourth goal was scandalous.
Speaking in a post match interview, Pogba, who had another outstanding game, said; “The result is positive but it’s not finished. We have to stay focused and play the second leg with the same mentality.
“In the first half, we made two mistakes and they cost us two goals. When we conceded the second one we were a bit all over the place. But we spoke at half-time and we were all motivated for the second half.”
On the penalty given against him, the Frenchman said; “I don’t know how to tackle! Why should I tackle?! I try to tackle and be the English guy, but I need to practice more. I need to practice tackling without arms! It was unlucky – I’ve been unlucky a lot this season with penalties so I need to start learning.” – With Goal.com reports
