After a tense and thrilling 90 minutes, Manchester United defeated Barcelona last night in the Europa League to progress to the last sixteen.

United were excellent, despite falling behind early on. Bruno Fernandes fouled Alejandro Balde in the area – Robert Lewandowski was more than happy to convert the penalty (even though David De Gea came within a fingertip of keeping it out), as Barcelona entered the break with a goal advantage.

In the second half, United came out swinging – they knew they needed to score. The Red Devils responded just two minutes after the restart, thanks to a low drive from Fred, who had a brilliant game throughout.

De Gea denied Jules Kounde with a point blank header, keeping his effort out with an acrobatic save. Deeper into the half, as the ball pinballed around Barcelona’s box, Antony unleashed a half volley that found its way past Ter Stegen – United had taken the lead.

Barcelona weren’t about to roll over and accept defeat – late on, Lewandowski saw a goalbound effort cleared off the line by Raphael Varane. In the end, however, United emerged victorious over the Catalonian giants.

United’s superior energy and physicality saved the day for them. Barcelona often saw intricate passing moves being broken up by the Red Devils’ dynamic midfield – Casemiro, especially, was phenomenal. Barca were often pressed into playing the ball quickly and directly, which did not suit their tactical style.

Can United carry this momentum into the weekend, where they will take on Newcastle United in the League Cup final at Wembley Stadium?