Cristiano Ronaldo scored a last-minute winner to help United stage a comeback against their last season's nemesis, Villareal at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
Contrary to the expectations of many, Villareal took control of the game from the start, with Arnaut Danjuma terrorizing the United defence.
Diogo Dalot in particular struggled to stop the Dutchman in one-on-one duels, leading to numerous chances for the Europa League holders.
His best effort came after ten minutes of play, when he cut inside the right-back, before curling an effort to the far post which was brilliantly saved by David de Gea.
Danjuma then whipped a cross on for Paco Alcàcer, who forced a superb reflex save from David de Gea.
United on the other hand clearly struggled to create any goal-scoring opportunities against Villareal.
In fact, the hosts' best sight of goal came through an opposition player, when Paul Pogba's lofted ball toward Mason Greenwood was met by Alberto Moreno, as he tipped the ball beyond the onrushing Gerónimo Rulli wide of the post.
The Yellow Submarines would eventually get through to United early in the second half. United's tormentor in chief, Danjuma, once again found himself behind Dalot, played a square play to Alcácer who in turn tipped the ball beyond De Gea.
The Theatre of Dreams demanded a response and they weren't left waiting for long, with Bruno Fernandes lofting a free-kick to the edge of the box, where Alex Telles was waiting to volley into the bottom corner in glorious fashion.
Ronaldo came to life in stoppage time to win the game for his side in a dramatic fashion.
After some tireless work to win the ball back from Edinson Cavani, a Jesse Lingard shot rebounded to the Portugal captain, and he made no mistake to finish beyond Rulli to give United a hugely unlikely victory on the night that he broke the UEFA Champions League appearance record. Which he did in his typical heroic style.
This article was most recently revised and updated 2 years ago
