Two goals and an assist while wearing the captain’s armband in a European game – it was quite the display from Paul Pogba on Wednesday night.
The 25-year-old led his side to victory with a star turn, scoring a cracking goal to set Manchester United on their way to a 3-0 victory over Young Boys in their Champions League Group H opener.
He added another goal and dominated in midfield – here’s a closer look at his performance.
KEY STATS
Goals – 2
Assists – 1
Shots – 2
Shots on target – 2
Passing Accuracy – 93%
Key Passes – 3
Dribbles – 1
30-SECOND REPORT
Handed the armband again in Antonio Valencia’s absence, Pogba rose to the occasion.
He directed play in midfield, taking on the Young Boys defenders and always looking out for the right pass. Scored a well-taken first goal, dribbling past a marker and then unleashing an unstoppable strike with his supposedly weaker left foot, before adding a second from the penalty spot.
Grew in confidence after his first goal, and helped United boss the game until he was taken off.
GOT RIGHT
Passing – This was a vintage Pogba display, as he switched play well and found his teammates with aplomb. The pass he delivered to set up Anthony Martial for United’s third goal was simple, but an example of his vision and poise when on the ball.
Finishing – Pogba had scored twice from the penalty spot this season, but he showed his quality in open play for United’s opener, delivering a sumptuous strike into the corner. He then added another penalty for good measure.
Pogba converted his third penalty of the season – after scoring a stunner.
GOT WRONG
Dispossessed easily – As can often happen with Pogba, there were times when he lost possession far too easily in midfield. At his best the Frenchman uses his strength and dribbling ability to maintain control, but he is prone to getting caught in possession and that happened more than a few times here. Those moments are made doubly troublesome by Pogba’s invariable frustrated reaction as he appeals in vain for a foul rather than trying to win the ball back.
VERDICT
This is the sort of display everyone expects from Pogba, only much more often. Two goals and an assist, largely dominant in midfield, and looking worthy of the captain’s armband.
What was perhaps even more impressive is that there was absolutely no rashness in this performance. No wild shots on goal, or attempting something too fancy when a simpler option was available. That level of maturity is promising.
If Pogba can hit this level consistently, United will be a threat in every competition.
RATING – 9/10
