Manchester United Secure Europa League Last-16 Spot with Victory Over FCSB

Manchester United booked their place in the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 with a commanding 2-0 victory over FCSB in Bucharest. The Red Devils dominated the second half, creating 2.72 expected goals (xG) and hitting the woodwork twice before sealing a well-earned win.

The match saw Kobbie Mainoo etch his name into United's history books, becoming the first player since Wayne Rooney in 2004 to score and assist on his first major European start. The 18-year-old set up Diogo Dalot for the opener with a well-timed pass, before slotting home from an Alejandro Garnacho cutback just eight minutes later to double United’s advantage.

Despite further chances for Rasmus Højlund, Bruno Fernandes, and Casemiro, United had to settle for a 2-0 scoreline, which was enough to guarantee a top-eight finish in the standings. FCSB, meanwhile, came close through Alexandru Birligea, who rattled the crossbar, and Andrei Rațiu, who forced a fine save from Altay Bayındır. However, the Romanian side’s defeat saw them drop to 11th, meaning they will now enter the play-off round, where they will face either Union Saint-Gilloise or PAOK.

The victory also marked a historic milestone for manager Rúben Amorim, who became just the second United boss after Sir Alex Ferguson in 1990 to win his first four major European matches in charge. With momentum on their side, the Red Devils now turn their focus back to domestic duties as they look to build on this success.