Europa League 2016/17, Celta Vigo 0-1 Manchester United: 5 Talking Points

One foot in the final?

Manchester United took a giant stride towards the Europa League final at Stockholm as Marcus Rashford’s free-kick helped clinch a hard-fought victory over Celta Vigo at the Balaidos Stadium. In an open game, both sides missed multiple opportunities before Marcus Rashford broke the deadlock with a sublime free-kick in the second half which left the goalkeeper wrong-footed.

With an away goal to take back to Old Trafford for the second leg, Jose Mourinho’s side are now favourites to progress to the summit clash at the Friends Arena in Stockholm on May 24.

Here are the talking points from the encounter in Spain:

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#1 Manchester United troubled by Pione Sisto – again

Pione Sisto and Antonio Valencia had another battle to savour

One of the duels of the game saw young Danish winger Pione Sisto come up against the experience of Antonio Valencia. United fans will recall Sisto from his exploits during a Round-of-32 tie against Midtjylland when the 22-year old – who played in a number nine role then – scored in both legs and used his pace to give United’s defenders a nightmare.

On this occasion, he was played from out wide and provided a stern test for the Ecuadorian with his fleet-footedness and ability to get the ball near the byline to find himself in a position to deliver a cross.

The youngster also saw a deflected shot narrowly tipped over the crossbar by Sergio Romero. Though his side couldn’t find the net, United have now identified a potential threat to the defence of their lead when the sides clash at Old Trafford next Thursday.