Manuel Ugarte makes vital goalline block to deny Fenerbahce equaliser – as Robbie Savage praises Man United midfielder’s ‘magnificent’ defending
Manuel Ugarte has kept Manchester United ahead against Fenerbahce by throwing himself in the way of a Dusan Tadic shot that looked destined for goal.
The Uruguayan left Paris Saint-Germain for Old Trafford this summer but has struggled to make a significant impact for the Red Devils this season.
However, in the first half of tonight’s game in Istanbul, the midfielder was everywhere and his committed defending helped United stay level in the Europa League match.
With the ball passed by Sebastian Szymański in the penalty area, former Southampton star Tadic looked certain to score, but Ugarte managed to instinctively block the shot with an outstretched leg.
TNT Sports commentator Robbie Savage said: ‘That’s brilliant there.
Manuel Ugarte keeps Manchester United ahead against Fenerbahce by throwing himself in the way of Dusan Tadic’s shot
Andre Onana’s brilliant double save also put United 1-0 ahead
United took the lead against Fenerbahce in the 15th minute thanks to an emphatic goal from Christian Eriksen
‘With his left foot [it’s] absolutely fantastic, brilliant game.”
United took the lead against Fenerbahce in the 15th minute thanks to an emphatic goal from Christian Eriksen after the Dane was overtaken by Joshua Zirkzee.
Jose Mourinho’s men tried to work their way back into the game, with former Newcastle trickster Alain Saint-Maximin looking his typical menacing self down the right.
But Ugarte’s intervention and goalkeeper Andre Onana’s beautiful double save ensured that Erik ten Hag was able to hold a team meeting under pressure with his team in the lead.