MANCHESTER, England — In the end, it was a routine 3-0 win for Manchester United against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Goals from Diogo Dalot, Marcus Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo assured the result in Ronaldo’s first match back since being sidelined by manager Erik ten Hag.
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With the result, Man United stay on course to continue through the Europa League.
ESPN’s Rob Dawson has reaction and analysis from Old Trafford.
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Rapid reaction
1. Man United progress and set up showdown with Real Sociedad
Manchester United were expected to beat FC Sheriff and they did, with a result that guarantees progress into the Europa League knockout rounds — but there is still plenty riding on the final round of group games and the trip to Real Sociedad next week.
The Spanish side’s 2-0 win over Omonia Nicosia means United will kick off in San Sebastian second in Group E, three points adrift. Win by at least two clear goals and Man United manager Erik ten Hag’s team will top the group and go straight in the last 16. Anything less, and they will face a last-32 tie against a team dropping down from the Champions League. As things stand, that could be Barcelona, Juventus, Atletico Madrid or Sevilla.
Ten Hag will want to avoid extra games further congesting an already packed schedule and meeting one of Europe’s heavyweights risks any further progress in the Europa League — a competition that could get United into next season’s Champions League if they miss out on a place in Premier League’s top four.
Expect Ten Hag to pick another strong team in Spain next week and do everything he can to finish top of the group.
