The Catalans clinched a home draw to stay hopeful ahead of the second leg.
Barcelona drew 2-2 with Manchester United in the first leg of their Europa League playoff clash on Thursday. An exciting second half saw both sides losing their leads.
Raphinha strikes again!
Barcelona made a solid start to the game, taking control over the possession. But Man Utd gradually found their feet in the game as the first half went on.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen made two wonderful saves to prevent Marcus Rashford and Wout Weghorst from scoring the opener. Barca also created serious chances, with Robert Lewandowski and Jordi Alba coming close to scoring.
It didn’t take long for the hosts, however, to find the back of the net after the break. Marcus Alonso converted a corner from Raphinha as he headed the ball home from the far post.
But United scored a quick equalizer through Marcus Rashford two minutes later. A precise low shot from the in-form striker got Man Utd back into the game.
The Red Devils pushed hard to complete their comeback and made it 2-1 just before the hour mark. Rashford’s powerful pass into Barca’s box hit Jules Kounde before hitting the net.
The own goal convinced Barca to double down on their attacks in the final 20 minutes. After a few missed chances, the Catalans found their equalizer through Raphinha.
The Brazil international completed his brilliant display with a shot from outside the box. The hosts continued attacking to complete their comeback but couldn’t convert their late chances.
The two sides will meet again for the second leg next Thursday.
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