Friday 14 February 2025 09:45
Manchester United’s Europa League picture is looking somewhat clearer following the first legs of the play-offs on Thursday night.
AZ Alkmaar have one foot in the last 16 after a resounding 4-1 victory over Galatasaray.
The Dutch side went ahead through Sven Mijnans, only to be pegged back by Roland Sallai’s equaliser. Former Tottenham striker Troy Parrott restored the hosts’ lead, from the penalty spot and, in the second half, Kaan Ayhan’s dismissal for a second yellow card left the Turkish giants up against it.
Jordy Clasie and David Moller Wolfe found the net to suggest AZ are likely to progress and have a 50/50 chance of being United’s next opponents in the competition.
Takefusa Kubo scored for Real Sociedad in their away win.
In the other game of big interest to the Reds, Real Sociedad are in the box seat in their two-legged tie with Midtjylland after securing a 2-1 away victory in Denmark.
Brais Mendez’s spot-kick and Takefusa Kubo’s effort handed the team from La Liga a convincing advantage.
Although Adam Buksa pulled one back, La Real will fancy their chances of completing the job next week.
The reverse fixtures take place on Thursday 20 February, with the draw being staged on the following day at 12:00 GMT in Nyon, Switzerland.
Tottenham cannot face United in the next round as the Lilywhites are placed on the other side of the draw.
Meanwhile, United winger Antony continued his impressive start on loan at Real Betis with a goal in a 3-0 away victory at Gent in the UEFA Conference League.
The 24-year-old now has two strikes to his name and we will be watching Antony’s progress with a careful eye between now and the end of the season
UNITED’S ROUND-OF-16 DRAW
AZ Alkmaar/Galatasaray or Midtjylland/Real Sociedad
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Friday 14 February 2025 09:45
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