Manchester United triumphs over LASK Linz

Photo: Vlad Indrei

In a match played in an almost empty stadium due to coronavirus concerns, Manchester United displayed unwavering focus and determination. Odion Ighalo set the tone with a 28th-minute strike that put United ahead. Although LASK managed to create some pressure during a brief spell around half-time, Daniel James, breaking a 32-game goal drought, extinguished any hopes of a resurgence with a goal in the 58th minute. Juan Mata added to the visitors' tally with a composed finish in the 82nd minute.

However, United's onslaught didn't stop there. Late substitutions Mason Greenwood (90+2) and Andreas Pereira (90+3) found the net within seconds of each other during added time, further deepening LASK's despair. This commanding victory effectively paves United's path to the quarter-finals, with the second leg set to take place at Old Trafford next Thursday.

Manchester United's remarkable performance extends their unbeaten streak to 11 games, during which they've conceded only twice. Additionally, this victory marks their second consecutive 5-0 triumph in the Europa League, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the competition.

In the words of Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, "The boys were fantastic. I think they deserve a lot of credit and praise for the way they went about the job. There was loads of quality in our finishing, some fantastic goals, and some football we should be proud of. It was easy to keep the team focused because these players are very focused. They know what they want, so there was no doubt in my mind that we were going to do well. After the warm-up, Michael (Carrick) and Kieran (McKenna) came to me and said that the boys were really, really good in the warm-up. Focused. I have to praise them, they are very professional." Solskjaer's words reflect the immense dedication and professionalism exhibited by his team throughout the match.