That was a brilliant exchange for United’s leveller – showing how dramatic their half-time tactical changes have been. Sancho on the left fed Fernandes who slipped it over for Fred. The midfielder’s perfect touch teed him up, and although his second was scuffed a bit the shot was still decent enough to fizz into the corner.
And sub Antony, on for Weghorst at the break, almost squeezed through a minute later. And VAR was never going to overturn the penalty verdict as there was no clear and obvious error. From the spot-kick Lewandowski bagged his first ever goal against the Red Devils – in his only appearance so far at Old Trafford.
United legend Paul Scholes told BT Sport it was “just about” a spot-kick. United looked disjointed in that first half, in contrast to their 2-2 opening-leg performance. Weghorst will surely be withdrawn from his out-and-out strike role. And fellow frontman Rashford could be switched more to the centre.
So far, at least since Lewandowski’s 18th minute penalty, Barca look comfortable. Ex-Leeds winger Raphinha was on the end of a neat barca move but he flashed a 22-yard half-chance high. Immediately at the other end, Weghorst was given a long ball to chase down the right – but clearly lacked the pace.
Rashford took on Barca’s France defender during a rare one-on-one down the left – before cutting inside for an opening soon snuffed out by an impressive visitors’ rearguard.
In case you didn't watch the match. – Man-Utd 💯💪🙌
Antony Goal vs Barcelona (2-1) pic.twitter.com/osGU8H9wm0— RAJAB BIN HAKIM 🇺🇬® (@rajab_bin_hakim) February 24, 2023