Man Utd Player Ratings: PAOK, Diallo the Hero
Manchester United secured a hard-fought 3-0 victory over PAOK in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie, with Amad Diallo emerging as the unlikely hero. The young winger, on loan from Manchester United, scored twice and provided the assist for Bruno Fernandes' goal.
Here's a breakdown of the individual performances:
Amad Diallo (9/10): The 19-year-old was a whirlwind of pace and trickery. He was a constant threat throughout the match, showcasing his exceptional dribbling skills and clinical finishing. He opened the scoring with a well-taken strike in the 32nd minute, then doubled his tally with a powerful finish in the 84th. His perfectly weighted cross for Fernandes' goal in the 73rd minute was also a moment of brilliance.
Bruno Fernandes (8/10): The Portuguese maestro continues to be the driving force behind United's attack. He dictated the tempo, created numerous chances, and capped off a strong performance with a goal. He was instrumental in United's dominance in the final third.
Anthony Martial (7/10): The French forward was lively in the first half, pressing effectively and providing a constant outlet for his teammates. He created some good opportunities for himself and others. However, he faded slightly in the second half but still played a crucial role in United's victory.
Luke Shaw (7/10): The left-back was a reliable presence down the left flank, providing good defensive cover and some accurate crosses. He was also involved in the build-up to Diallo's second goal.
Scott McTominay (6/10): The Scottish midfielder was a solid presence in the middle of the park, breaking up play and winning back possession. He was also involved in some promising counter-attacks.
Harry Maguire (6/10): The captain was composed in defense, making several crucial interceptions and tackles. He was also good in the air.
Victor Lindelof (6/10): Alongside Maguire, Lindelof provided a solid platform for United's attack. He was focused and disciplined throughout the match.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (6/10): The right-back was defensively solid, keeping his wing secure and preventing PAOK from creating any clear-cut chances. However, he offered limited attacking threat.
Donny van de Beek (5/10): The Dutch midfielder struggled to influence the game. He was substituted at halftime, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seeking a more attacking presence.
Fred (5/10): The Brazilian midfielder was hardworking but did not have the same impact as McTominay in the first half.
Substitutes:
Nemanja Matic (6/10): The Serbian midfielder brought a calming presence to the midfield after coming on at halftime. He helped to control the game in the second half.
Mason Greenwood (6/10): The young forward came on for Martial and injected pace into the attack, but he didn't manage to find the back of the net.
Overall:
Manchester United's victory over PAOK was a significant step in their quest for European glory. Diallo's performance was truly inspiring, and the team's overall display was impressive. The Red Devils will be confident heading into the second leg in Greece, hoping to secure their place in the quarter-finals.