Manchester United scored a crucial away goal as Memphis Depay broke the deadlock against Midtjylland in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Watch more brilliant snippets like this with fanatix’s FREE sports video news app.
United suffered a setback shortly before kickoff after David de Gea was forced to miss out having picked up an injury during his pre-game warm-up.
Although the Red Devils have yet to reveal any further details on the extent of the issue, Sergio Romero was called into action and made a strong start to the game.
The Argentine goalkeeper pulled off a crucial stop to deny the hosts at one end, before it took just 56 seconds for United to go up the other and find the back of the net with Depay bundling home after initially losing his footing in the six-yard box.
Nevertheless, United’s joy was short-lived as Pione Sisto produced a wonderful solo effort as he jinxed his way past the defence of the visitors and struck an unstoppable shot beyond the outstretched hand of Romero.
Having conceded on the brink of half time, it remains to be seen how the goal effects both sides, with Midtjylland certainly likely to now grow in confidence and believe that they can take a lead into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.
Meanwhile, Louis van Gaal will desperate to avoid a defeat, and so the Dutchman could decide to be content with an away goal and a draw to take back to Manchester given their current injury crisis.