Man United player ratings as centre-backs star v Juventus before cavalry arrives

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  • Cristiano Ronaldo scored a spectacular goal against his former side but it was Manchester United who came away from Turin with all three points.

    Juventus broke the deadlock in the 65th minute when Miralem Pjanic’s ball over the top was met by a sumptuous Ronaldo volley.

    The Italians went on to squander a few glorious chances to extend their lead as United chased the game.

    Substitute Juan Mata curled in a delicious free-kick from the edge of the are in the 86th minute to drag the away side level, before Ashley Young’s in-swinging set-piece saw Alex Sandro turn the ball into his own net to give the Reds a winner in the final minute.

    Here, we rate the performances of United’s players in the Champions League clash.

    MANCHESTER (4-3-3)

    David De Gea – Reacted well to keep out Juan Cudrado’s deflected cross off Nemanja Matic. Nothing he could do to stop Ronaldo’s volley but did deny Miralem Pjanic soon after. 6

    Ashley Young – His crossing was disappointing at times but worked hard and was solid defensively. Put in an excellent delivery that led to the winning goal. 6

    Chris Smalling – Had a good game at the back, doing well on one occasion in particular to deny Cristiano Ronaldo a clear strike from inside the box. 7

    Victor Lindelof – Seemed to be at the right place at the time, making numerous crucial clearances and blocks. Was well beaten by Ronaldo’s perfectly-timed run for the goal, though. 7

    Luke Shaw – Showed great enterprise going forward and intervened well against Ronaldo and Cuadrado a couple of times. Continues to impress. 6

    Ander Herrera – Brought energy and organisation to the midfield but struggled to affect the game with his passing despite keeping the ball well. 6

    Nemanja Matic – Recycled possession and anchored the midfield well but was always walking a tight rope after an early booking. 6

    Paul Pogba – Not one of his better outings. Gave away possession cheaply on a number of occasions when United really needed him to be at his best. Did win the free-kick for the equaliser smartly. 5

    Jesse Lingard – Linked up well with Alexis Sanchez on a few occasions and tracked Alex Sandro when needed. 6

    Alexis Sanchez – Worked hard up front and linked play well. Was mobile and caused Juventus a few problems but never seriously threatened the goal, taking only one shot. 6

    Anthony Martial – Had one effort which he put wide of the far post and worked hard to get back and defend. Looked good in the closing stages when United chased the game. 6

    SUBS

    Marcus Rashford – Replaced Lingard for the last 20 minutes and added zip to the attack. A ferocious shot went just wide of the near post. 6

    Juan Mata – Scored a superb free-kick to restore parity. N/A

    Marouane Fellaini – Helped drag United further up the pitch as they chased the game. N/A

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