Second-half substitute Rasmus Højlund delivered a match-winning performance as Manchester United overcame Viktoria Plzeň 2-1 in a thrilling Europa League clash on Thursday.
The hosts struck first shortly after halftime when Matej Vydra capitalised on a defensive error to put Plzeň ahead. However, Højlund equalised in the 62nd minute, tapping in Amad Diallo’s deflected shot just six minutes after coming off the bench.
The Danish striker sealed the win with a precise finish in the 88th minute, spinning past his marker to convert Bruno Fernandes’ clever free-kick delivery.
Plzeň opened the scoring in the 48th minute when Pavel Šulc intercepted André Onana’s wayward pass and set up Vydra for a simple finish. The goal served as a wake-up call for United manager Ruben Amorim, who introduced Højlund, Mason Mount, and Antony to spark a turnaround.
“It wasn’t our best performance,” Amorim admitted post-match. “But the substitutes changed the game, and that’s their job. I’m pleased with the result and the determination shown.”
United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the first half, with Bruno Fernandes’ low drive being their only shot on target. Onana also had to remain alert, narrowly avoiding conceding to Cheick Souaré just before halftime.
The second half saw more urgency, with Jedlička denying both Mount and Antony before Højlund’s clinical display secured the points for the visitors.
The victory puts Manchester United in a strong position to directly qualify for the last 16 of the Europa League. United will next face Rangers at Old Trafford on January 23.
