Europa League: Manchester United vs PAOK - As It Happens
Let's get this show on the road! It's a big night for Manchester United as they host PAOK in the second leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie. The Red Devils are looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Greece, and they'll need to be firing on all cylinders to make it through to the quarter-finals.
Let's break down the game:
- The first leg was a real nail-biter. United had plenty of possession, but PAOK defended resolutely and took their one big chance.
- United will need to be more clinical in front of goal. They've struggled to find the back of the net recently, but they'll need to be more ruthless if they want to get the result they need.
- PAOK will be looking to play on the counter. They'll be happy to sit back and let United have the ball, and they'll look to hit them on the break with their pacey attackers.
Here's the lineup for Manchester United:
- De Gea
- Young
- Lindelöf
- Smalling
- Shaw
- Matic
- Herrera
- Rashford
- Mata
- Lingard
- Lukaku
The atmosphere at Old Trafford is electric! The fans are really up for this one, and they're going to be a big factor in the game.
KICK-OFF!
Early pressure from United. They're starting off strong and looking to take the lead early on. Ooh, close! Rashford gets in behind the defense, but his shot goes just wide.
Goal! United take the lead! Lukaku gets his head on a cross from Mata and it's 1-0. The Red Devils are looking dangerous here.
PAOK are trying to respond. They're pushing forward and creating some chances, but De Gea is making some important saves.
Half-time! Manchester United go into the break with a 1-0 lead. They've been the better team, but they need to be careful not to concede a goal.
The second half is underway. The Red Devils are still in control, but PAOK are looking for an equalizer.
Oh no! PAOK almost score! A cross from the right wing finds a PAOK player in the box, but his header goes just over the bar. Close call!
United are looking for a second goal to kill off the tie. They're pushing forward, but they're also being careful not to leave themselves open at the back.
Full time! Manchester United win 1-0 and advance to the quarter-finals of the Europa League! It wasn't pretty, but they got the job done.
What a night! The Red Devils are still alive in Europe, and they'll be looking to go all the way. Stay tuned for the quarter-final draw!