Europa League: Manchester United through to the round of 16
Manchester United made it out of the last 32 and into the round of 16 in the Europa League for the fifth time, having already progressed through in 2011-12, 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2019-20.
Though the second leg tie against Real Sociedad ended in a goalless draw, Ole Gunnar’s men all but eased into this year’s round of 16 with a 4-0 aggregate over their opponents first time victory at Turin last week.
The Spanish side started badly as their captain, Mikel Oyarzabal, missed a spot-kick and the chance to put the visitors ahead.
After a series of misses, Manchester United thought they had taken the lead when Axel Tuanzebe headed in what could have been his first United goal. Still, his celebration was cut short after a pitchside monitor ruled that Victor Lindelof had committed a foul leading to a plan, thereby cancelling the goal.
As Ole Gunnar continues to give youngsters a chance, at age 17 years, for 23 days, Shola Shoretire became the youngest player for Manchester United in a European competition.
The Red Devils will know their round of 16 opponents when the draws are made on Friday. The last-16 ties will be played on 11 and 18 March.
Back in the Premier League, United will travel to London, where Chelsea will be waiting to host them in what promises to be a cracker on Sunday.
