Hojlund’s Late Brace Seals United’s Europa League Win

Rasmus Hojlund scored a second-half brace to help Manchester United secure a 2-1 comeback win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday.

The victory, which marks United’s third consecutive win in the competition, saw them bounce back after a tough start, with the team now unbeaten in six group-stage games.

After a goalless first half, United found themselves trailing early in the second period when Plzen’s Matej Vydra capitalized on a poor pass from goalkeeper Andre Onana.

Pavel Sulc intercepted the ball and laid it off for Vydra, who calmly slotted home to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

However, United responded quickly. Hojlund, who had replaced Marcus Rashford in the 56th minute, was in the right place at the right time.

In the 61st minute, Amad Diallo’s shot from a tight angle was blocked, but Hojlund was quick to pounce on the rebound and score from close range to level the game.

With the match heading towards a draw, Hojlund sealed the win in the 88th minute.

Bruno Fernandes delivered a perfectly executed low free kick into the box, which Hojlund converted with a composed finish to hand United all three points.

The win lifts United to 12 points in the group standings, provisionally putting them in fifth place, as they continue to push for an automatic spot in the knockout rounds.

United will now turn their attention to the Premier League, where they face rivals Manchester City on Sunday.

Their next Europa League fixture sees them host Rangers on January 23 before finishing the group stage away at Steaua Bucharest.