Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot pinpointed the half-time substitutions of Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo as what sparked the team into life as they beat FCSB 2-0.
United secured automatic progression to the last 16 of the Europa League courtesy of goals from Dalot himself and Kobbie Mainoo.
The game was tied at 0-0 heading into the break and the introductions of Garnacho and Amad gave the visitors a different dimension.
The two forwards helped United maintain width, while their pace and dribbling also caused FCSB all sorts of problems. Garnacho ended up registering the assist for Mainoo’s goal. The Argentine could have also got on the score sheet but he hit the post with his effort.
After the final whistle, Dalot spoke to MUTV and pointed out, “I think the first half was just us trying to understand where we could hurt them.”
“Obviously in the second half with Amad and Garna [Garnacho] we had a bit more of a threat inside the final third and were a bit more direct.”
“But overall, I think we controlled the whole game. Even after the first goal, we conceded one or two chances that could have changed the game, but I think that was more through a lack of focus than from the opposition.”
“Overall, I think we are really happy with the performance, the result and another clean sheet, which is also important for us.”
“We have gone into the next phase directly, and that was what we wanted. It was really good from us.”
Dalot’s strike against FCSB marked his first goal of the season and the Portugal international insisted he wants to add to his tally.
“It is sometimes that I think I can do even more. It is something that has to come, especially from our wide players, who have to arrive in the box at the back post.”
“You can see how many players we can have in the box when we are in the final third, and I think that is important from us to start to understand. To score goals, you have to be there; if you are not there, you are not going to score.”
Dalot and his teammates return to Premier League action on Sunday when they host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. Kick-off is at 14:00 GMT.
Featured image Vasili Mihai-Antonio via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
