Manchester United advance to the Europa League semi-finals after defeating Copenhagen in extra time in the quarter-finals on Monday, 1-0, in Cologne, Germany. The Red Devils scored from the penalty spot in the first half of extra time with Bruno Fernandes converting it. United will now face Wolves of Sevilla for a place in the final.
It was an even match and although the extra time penalty proved decisive, United were the stronger side. The Danish club stayed in the match due to an inspiring performance from goalkeeper Karl-Johan Johnsson, who made several world-class savings as his team kept the chance of a comeback alive for much of the match.
United join Inter Milan in the semi-finals after Italian club Bayer Leverkusen beat 2-1. For a full view on the bracket, click here.
Here are three takeaways from the game.
Agents of goalkeeper of FC Copenhagen get better conversations
Johnsson was absolutely spectacular that night with 13 saves and proved to be a fantastic shot-stopper. He made savings with every part of his body except his head, responded well with both hands and was quite impressive. If I’m a Premier League team (look at you, Chelsea) or Serie A team looking for a goalkeeper, I make a call because its market price is well below $ 5 million and can be a great value. He is 30 years old, which is not much for a goalkeeper, and he has national team experience with Sweden.
There’s no better penalty kicker than Bruno
Death, taxes, and Bruno Fernandes converting from the penalty spot. He has made 18 straight for Manchester United and has not missed once since October of 2018. That means it has been almost two years since he missed a spot, which is easier said than done. He has great accuracy on his spot kicks, puts a little pace on them and just shows extreme confidence, and he did it again in this one.
3. Give Copenhagen credit
That was a show that Kopen should be proud of. Sure, they did not produce a single shot on goal because the accuracy was out, and their goalkeeper had to make so many saves, but they were sharp on the ball, using fouls to carry United on the counter and really compete. It was a brave attempt for a club that did not have much chance of winning.
Manchester United 1, Copenhagen 0 (Final aet)
⚽ Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes penalty (94 ‘)
