First half goals see Man Utd cruise past Sheriff

Sheriff stunned the world last season when they won 1-2 at Real Madrid in the Champions League, but none of the players from that team remain at the club and Man Utd were far too good in this Europa League encounter. After a quiet start to the game, Jadon Sancho put United ahead after 17 minutes and it was two just before the break after Dalot was fouled in the area and Cristiano Ronaldo converted the resulting penalty. United could have even extend their lead in the second period, but the game was already beyond the Moldovans. 

The first half saw Man Utd have the lion share of possession and territory but Sheriff made it difficult for them to create any major chances early on. However, Ten Hag's men hit the front with their first chance after good link-up play between Eriksen and Fernandes saw the Dane play in Sancho, who cut inside before firing in off the far post. 

The goal calmed any Man Utd nerves, but Sheriff could have levelled in the 22 minutes through Atiemwen. Unfortunately for him, his shot flashed narrowly wide of De Gea's right hand post. However, apart from that, the away side were comfortable and had chances to extend their lead. 

 

September 15, 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo hit off target after Antony took a quick free-kick while Sancho nearly scored again in the 37th minute following a poor clearance by goalkeeper Koval, but Sheriff cleared it off the line. Then, just before half-time, Man Utd struck again. Fernandes picked out Dalot in the box and Kpozo kicked Dalot in the leg from behind. The Polish ref had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and Cristiano Ronaldo hit his penalty hard down the middle to double Man Utd's advantage. 

The second period saw Man Utd dominate against a Sheriff side who seemed resigned to their fate. Bruno Fernandes nearly made it three after 48 minutes, but he was denied by a fine save from close range while Sheriff's only chance came on the hour mark when Rasheed's attempted lob from 30 yards landed on the top of the net.

The rest of the match passed off without incidents of note and Man Utd cruised to their first victory in this season's competition. Ten Hag's side now face a double header with Omonia Nicosia, the weakest team in the group, and six points there should practically secure their place in the knockout stages.