Manchester United opened their Europa League account with a victory as they beat Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol 2-0 on Thursday.
Both goals came in the first half with Jadon Sancho scoring the opening goal before Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty to secure all three points for the visitors.
Erik ten Hag opted to pick his strongest possible team in Moldova, as Scott McTominay started in place of Casemiro, while Lisandro Martinez rejoined Raphael Varane at the heart of the defence.
Strong team, strong display
The duo have now kept three clean sheets in five games they have started together. The center-back pair hardly took a wrong step at the Zimbru Stadium.
And the regulars, including Christian Eriksen, showed that by playing a couple of games together now, they have built a healthy understanding.
Christian Eriksen vs. First Half Numbers Sheriff Tiraspol:
83% Passing Accuracy 2 Long Balls Completed 2 Key Passes 1/1 Ground Match Won 1 Tackle 1 Assist
Creator. ???? pic.twitter.com/rY2TWsPKSK
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 15, 2022
Especially encouraging was seeing that the combination of Eriksen and McTominay in midfield dominated the proceedings.
The Dane has started every United game this season, highlighting his importance in Ten Hag’s plans. His assist for the first goal was class and he might have had a few more to his name were it not for a last minute defense from the hosts.
Eriksen has been complimentary of his midfield partner in recent interviews and the Scot showed why he is a guaranteed starter ahead of the much more accomplished Casemiro. He cleaned up when needed and was always an available outlet on offense.
regulars shine
Ten Hag will be pleased that Ronaldo, his only fit center forward at the moment, has finally gotten on the scoresheet. The Portuguese didn’t show his usual effervescence, but his first goal of the campaign should give him the confidence he so badly needs.
The second half was a much more lukewarm affair, but the manager will be delighted to see Casemiro sell half the football under his belt as he tries to get used to his new surroundings and the return of Luke Shaw after an enforced absence through injury.
The victory highlighted that the Dutch manager is likely to pick the same team, except Ronaldo, for the Manchester Derby, provided they all stay fit.
Backups like Fred, Maguire, Victor Lindelof have a lot of work on their hands if they want to return to the starting XI in the future.
