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Manchester United Struggles But is Saved by Bruno Fernandes in Europa League
A goal from Bruno Fernandes in added time, amid a dramatic finish, gave Manchester United a 2-1 victory over Rangers, putting the English side's qualification for the Europa League round of 16 within reach. Fernandes' decisive goal came just a minute after Cyriel Dessers equalized for the Scots, sending Old Trafford on a rollercoaster of emotions.
The team coached by Ruben Amorim had been on a run of only one win in their last seven matches, but they remain unbeaten in Europe. With this victory, the 'Red Devils' secured their fourth consecutive win in the competition, allowing them to climb to fourth place in the group, although they still need to confirm their direct qualification to the knockout stage in the final match against Steaua Bucharest.
The match started off well for the hosts, who took the lead thanks to an own goal by the Rangers goalkeeper. Christian Eriksen took a corner in the 53rd minute, and the Scottish keeper, attempting to clear the ball with his fists, diverted it into his own net, giving Manchester United a 1-0 lead.
However, the calm didn't last long. Rangers equalized in the 88th minute with a long pass from James Tavernier, which left Harry Maguire out of position, and Cyriel Dessers took advantage of the defensive mistake to beat the Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who could do little to stop the equalizer.
Just when it seemed like Manchester United would lose two crucial points, the savior Bruno Fernandes appeared in stoppage time. The Portuguese midfielder finished a cross from Lisandro Martínez inside the area to give the 'Red Devils' the win, sparking wild celebrations at Old Trafford.
With this victory, Manchester United remains in the hunt for the top spots in the group, sitting fourth, just one point behind third-place (Athletic) and second-place (Eintracht Frankfurt), and four points behind leaders Lazio. On the other hand, Rangers, who also depend on the final matchday, are nearly assured a spot in the top 24, with mathematical chances still alive to make it to the top eight in their group.