October 21, (THEWILL) – After a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Atalanta at Old Trafford, Manchester United took control of their Champions League group.
The hosts got off to a strong start, moving the ball with purpose that belied their weekend loss to Leicester. Marcus Rashford, whose goal-scoring return at the King Power Stadium earned him a starting spot, was sent through after a lovely sweeping move inside two minutes.
Yet, United was caught off guard just 14 minutes into the game. Atalanta’s quick free-kick sent Davide Zappacosta into a dangerous area inside the penalty area, and Mario Pasalic tapped in his cut-back.
The lead was then doubled 13 minutes later by Gian Piero Gasperini’s side. Merih Demiral brushed off the attentions of Scott McTominay to power his header past David de Gea after Teun Koopmeiners whipped a delightful corner into the area.
As United struggled to come to terms with the scoreline, the Old Trafford crowd erupted in boos. Before the break, both Fred and Rashford squandered fantastic opportunities but Atalanta went into the interval two goals up.
In the 52nd minute, Bruno Fernandes found Rashford with a clever round-the-corner pass, and the England international stroked his effort past Juan Musso.
Scott McTominay then came within inches of tying the game when he hit the post, but United’s pressure paid off 15 minutes from time when Harry Maguire slammed home a cross from Fernandes at the back post.
But, Solskjaer’s team was not finished yet. Cristiano Ronaldo headed Man Utd ahead from Luke Shaw’s cross nine minutes from time, sparking scenes of jubilation inside Old Trafford, similar to his late winner against Villarreal the previous matchday.
The two teams will meet again in Italy in two weeks. Before that, United will play Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday, while Atalanta will take on Udinese in the Serie A.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
