Mueez Ajao
– Manchester United and Barcelona contested a thrilling first-leg draw at the Nou Camp to leave their Europa League play-off tie finely poised.
– Having previously met in two Champions League finals – both of which Barca won – the sides are on the path to recovery in trying to reach those heady heights again.
– This encounter in Europe’s secondary competition was another step on that road back to the top.
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– Xavi’s men grabbed the opener when Marcos Alonso headed in at the back post from Raphinha’s corner, but United responded immediately through the in-form Marcus Rashford as he slipped in a finish at the near post.
– Erik ten Hag’s side showed their resilience to turn the game around as Rashford’s cross was then turned into his own net by Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.
– But United were unable to hold on as ex-Leeds winger Raphinha’s cross from wide on the right sailed all the way into the net.
– Barca, though, almost snatched a late victory when Casemiro’s attempted clearance struck his own post, but little separated the sides heading into next Thursday’s second leg at Old Trafford.
FULL TIME #BarçaMUFC pic.twitter.com/tDAtsRMDGg
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 16, 2023
