MANCHESTER, England (Reuters)

Brazilian forward Antony stepped off the bench to send Manchester United through to the Europa League last 16, with the hosts coming from behind to beat Barcelona 2-1 in today’s (February 23) playoff second leg, progressing 4-3 on aggregate.

After a frantic start, Barca were awarded an 18th-minute penalty, much to United’s frustration, after Bruno Fernandes was adjudged to have fouled defender Alejandro Balde, with Robert Lewandowski just squeezing the resulting spot kick home.

SUPERB FINISH

United came out for the second half looking like a different side and levelled through Fred, the Brazilian steering home Fernandes’ pass two minutes after the break.

A superb save from goalkeeper David de Gea kept Barca’s Jules Kounde at bay, a stop that proved crucial as Antony arrowed a superb finish into the bottom corner 17 minutes from time to send United through.

The victory means United remain in four competitions this season, with a first trophy since 2017 on the horizon.