Manchester United achieved their first European win in 380 days, defeating Greek champions PAOK Salonika at Old Trafford with two goals from Amad Diallo. The last time United celebrated a victory in Europe was against FC Copenhagen on October 24, 2023.
Amad Diallo was instrumental in reviving Manchester United’s Europa League hopes with a crucial 2-0 win over PAOK Salonika at Old Trafford. This victory was a significant morale boost for United after a series of disappointing draws in previous matches.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, in his second match as interim manager, gave Diallo his first start in over a month. The 22-year-old winger rose to the occasion, delivering a standout performance highlighted by two decisive goals in the second half, sparking optimism about the team’s chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.
Prior to this match, United had drawn their first three Europa League fixtures against Twente, Porto, and Fenerbahce. Therefore, securing a win against a persistent PAOK team was crucial. Andre Onana, the United goalkeeper, made impressive saves to deny both Mady Camara and Andrija Zivkovic, who had threatened in the first half.
The opening 45 minutes saw United struggle to threaten PAOK’s defense. Their best chance came from Rasmus Hojlund, whose header from a Casemiro cross was comfortably saved by Dominik Kotarski. Additionally, Amad was thwarted at the far post by a remarkable defensive effort from Baba Rahman, leaving United feeling frustrated at halftime.
Upon returning for the second half, United displayed renewed urgency. Just five minutes in, Amad Diallo headed in Bruno Fernandes’ deep cross, grazing the far post before going in, igniting cheers from the home crowd.
Immediately following the goal, PAOK almost equalized when Taison found an open Tarik Tissoudali, but the PAOK forward squandered the chance with a poorly aimed shot from close range. This miss proved pivotal, as Amad sealed the victory for United with a determined run and finish in the 77th minute, bolstering his prospects under Van Nistelrooy’s tenure.
This victory lifted Manchester United to 15th position in the league standings, placing them within the playoff spots, while PAOK Salonika remained in 33rd place, still searching for their first win in this season’s tournament.
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