Manchester United hosted Benfica to play the fourth game of the Champions League. Both teams came face-to-face at United’s home turf, Old Trafford. United had three wins in three games before the game, whereas Benfica hadn’t won a single game in the tournament.

This game was do-or-die for Benfica as they had zero points in three games. Benfica lost to Basel and CSKA Moscow by 5-0 and 1-2. A win against Man United could have given them a hope of qualification to the next round.

Better gameplay in the first-half

Benfica started off the game with a possessive play; however, they failed to keep the ball in the opponent’s half.

Man United’s wonder kid, Anthony Martial earned a penalty when Benfica defenders couldn’t tackle his excellent dribbling and consequently conceded a penalty under twenty minutes of the game. Anthony Martial, as usual, came to the penalty spot to score, but Benfica’s teenage goalkeeper, Mile Svilar somehow parried the shot away.

Both teams played a good game in the first-half. Before ending the first-half, Man United scored a goal with the help of the midfielder, Nemanja Matic. Matic tried a long-shot but was denied by the woodwork; however, it finally went back of the net with a deflection by Mile Svilar.

Man United's win in the second-half

Benfica came back to find an equalizer and get at least something out of this game.

Man United kicked-off the second-half and tried to daze Benfica in opening minutes. However, Benfica’s organized defending kept United attackers at bay.

United striker, Lukaku, had few chances to score in the first-half but he failed to find the target. Lukaku has been struggling for the last few game to score. A possessive and calm gameplay again earned United a penalty kick in the 78th minute.

This time, United’s full-back player, Daley Blind came forward to take penalty responsibilities. He calmly took a shot and successfully dodged the goalkeeper, Mile Svilar. The game ended with a 2-0 win for United and an exit from the Champions League for Benfica.

A new record for Jose Mourinho

Man United boss, Jose Mourinho, set a new club record at Old Trafford after beating Benfica.

Manchester United haven’t lost any game since last September against their local rivals Manchester City - in their 38 subsequent home games United have drawn 11 matches and won an impressive 27.

This season, Man United have only conceded one goal on their home turf, Old Trafford. An impressive display this season resulting in earning them the second spot in the Premier League and the first spot in the Champions League so far.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED