100% duels won, four take-ons: One Utd man was ‘putting on a show’ in the first 45 of EL clash

Manchester United are vying for all three points in the final 20 minutes of tonight’s Europa League opener versus FC Twente.

Christian Eriksen opened the scoring with a scintillating first-half strike, with the Reds then continuing to look comfortable – until the second half came along.

Anything other than a win this evening would be all too reminiscent of how the side so frequently capitulated in the closing stages of matches last season, and it’s something fans had hoped had come to an end now that Erik ten Hag has the majority of his first-choice players at his disposal.

Read more: Scholes – Utd were ‘all over the place’ until Ten Hag utilised ‘magnificent’ star, he brings the ‘control’

While struggling to make his mark after the interval, Marcus Rashford did enjoy a confident showing in the first 45 minutes. Per StatmanDave, the forward was ‘putting on a show’ as he won 100 per cent of his duels, completed four take-ons, recorded seven touches in the opposition’s box and created two chances.

He also displayed a sublime piece of skill that would’ve been easy on the eye to any football fan, beating his opponent with an outstanding elastico nutmeg. 

Marcus Rashford’s first half vs. FC Twente by numbers:

100% duels won

36 total touches

7 touches in the opposition’s box

4 attempted take-ons

4 successful take-ons

3 defensive actions

2 chances created

1 big chance created

0.41 xA

Putting on a show under the lights. 💡 pic.twitter.com/08OlUtpqrQ

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 25, 2024