Manchester United ended their year-long wait for a European win by defeating PAOK 2-0 at Old Trafford, extending their unbeaten home run against Greek sides to seven matches. United entered the game still searching for their first win in Europe this season, with Ruud van Nistelrooy aiming to deliver that victory before his interim reign concludes this weekend.
The Greek visitors had the opening chance of the game when Andrija Živković’s square ball to the edge of the box was fired goalwards by Mady Camara. A wicked deflection off Casemiro almost deceived André Onana, but Jonny Evans was on hand to clear the danger.
As the match progressed, the Red Devils grew into the contest and soon took control of possession, creating several promising opportunities. However, the final ball was often lacking. Amad Diallo managed to flash a ball into the box, but Ramus Højlund’s header was comfortably gathered by Dominik Kotarski. The home side continued to probe until the halftime whistle, getting into promising positions following neat build-up play from Amad, Noussair Mazraoui, and Bruno Fernandes, but the final ball remained a challenge.
Whatever Van Nistelrooy said during the interval clearly resonated with his players, as United finally found the back of the net within five minutes of the restart. Fernandes’ inviting cross to the back post was headed in by Amad. The goalscorer had the bit between his teeth and almost doubled his tally for the evening after being sent through on goal by Fernandes, but his weak right-footed effort was saved by the legs of Kotarski.
PAOK rarely threatened following their early effort, but Tarik Tissoudali spurned a glorious opportunity to draw the Greeks level after being picked out unmarked in the box. His tame effort was comfortably stopped by Onana. The man of the moment, Amad, continued to pose the biggest threat going forward for United. Following great defensive work from the front, he dispossessed Baba Rahman in his own half before driving towards the box and unleashing a pinpoint finish into the corner.
With the two-goal buffer, United coasted through the final quarter-hour, sealing a much-needed victory at the midway point of the UEL league phase. This win not only ended their European drought but also provided a morale boost ahead of their upcoming fixtures. Next up is Leicester in Van Nistelrooy’s last game in charge, with Rúben Amorim set to take over for United’s next UEL game against Bodø/Glimt.
PAOK, on the other hand, remains winless in their four games (D1, L3), with a trip to Latvia’s RFS next on their schedule. The Greek side will need to regroup and find a way to turn their fortunes around if they hope to progress further in the competition.
United’s performance was a testament to their resilience and determination to secure a positive result. The victory was a fitting send-off for Van Nistelrooy, who has guided the team through a challenging period. With Amorim set to take the reins, United fans will be hopeful for continued success in their European campaign.
Overall, the match showcased United’s ability to overcome adversity and deliver when it mattered most. The team’s defensive solidity, combined with Amad’s attacking prowess, proved to be the difference on the night. As they look ahead to their next fixtures, United will aim to build on this momentum and continue their pursuit of European glory.