MANCHESTER UNITED eased past Sheriff at Old Trafford as Ronaldo finally got his comeback goal.
They now need to win by two goals or more at Real Sociedad next week to top the group.
Erik ten Hag’s team had the lion’s share of possession as they dominated the Europa League clash and walked away 3-0 victors.
United left it late in the first half but they finally managed to find their breakthrough thanks to a Diogo Dalot header.
They have been overwhelming in control – thanks mainly to a fine Christian Eriksen – but a number of shots were speculative and fully-fledged chances few and far between.
The second half was a similar story but Marcus Rashford made it two with a guided nod.
Then Ronaldo got his redemption as he reacted first to a save and finally found the back of the net.
Here is how Alex Cole saw the performances of the Man Utd players against Sheriff.
David de Gea – 7/10
May as well have been reading the paper for most of the game. A professional as usual.
Tyrell Malacia – 7
Flew forward at times to join the attack.
The Dutchman wasn’t required to do too much defending but played well.
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Lisandro Martinez – 6
Not much can be said for the Argentine. Had a knock about before coming off for Maguire just after half time.
Victor Lindelof – 7
Tidied up well. Did what he needed to.
Diogo Dalot – 7
Got the breakthrough goal a couple of minutes before half-time – headed in from close distance from a corner.
Came off for Shaw in the second period.
Christian Eriksen – 8
The Dane played quarterback from the pocket of the midfield. Found Dalot’s head from a whipped corner to put United one up.
Seemed to have the ball with every alternate touch the Red Devils took. Controlled proceedings.
Casemiro – 8
Played deep to allow Eriksen and Fernandes to go forward. Was smashed in the mouth with an elbow 20 minutes in.
Switched for McTominay in the second-half.
Antony – 6
The winger’s performance was as electric as his platinum blond hair.
But a dazzling piece of skill in the 36th minute was too much a showboat for 0-0, especially after he put the ball straight out.
He was hauled off at half-time after his ridiculous spin move.
Bruno Fernandes – 6
Tried to curl one in from distance with half an hour gone but just flashed wide.
A reasonable day at the office.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 8
Huge wave of anticipation in Old Trafford when he first got the ball.
Headed just over the crossbar in the 13th minute. Missed a sitter in the 27th from point-blank range.
Was desperate for a goal and came close a few times, including a strike given offside. The 37-year-old was booked for booting the ball away afterwards.
The veteran eventually found the back of the net late on when he reacted quickly to a save.
Alejandro Garnacho – 8
Good run by the Spanish youngster within the opening minutes.
The 18-year-old looked lively. The crowd loved him. A fun performance from Garnacho.
Showed Ten Hag what he’s about.
SUBSTITUTES
Marcus Rashford (for Antony 46) – 7
Glorious header for United’s second goal.
Harry Maguire (for Martinez 46) – 6
Booked harshly in the 84th minute
Luke Shaw (for Dalot 62) – 7
Assist on Rashford’s header.
