Manchester United registered a hard-fought 2-1 win at Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday.
The Red Devils dominated proceedings in the opening half at the Doosan Arena but were unable to break the deadlock before half-time.
Plzen scored shortly after the restart from a goalkeeping error, but United fought with two fine goals from substitute Rasmus Hojlund.
Hojlund was undoubtedly the man of the match for his game-changing display, but Casemiro also performed well in midfield.
The Brazil international made his first appearance in three outings, and he stepped up with a solid display. He won each of his eight ground duels contested.
The former Real Madrid star had a 90 percent passing accuracy. He also won 100% of his dribbles with five recoveries, three clearances and two tackles.
Casemiro did not face the most difficult of opposition, but he did his work splendidly well before being replaced by Manuel Ugarte in the 81st minute.
It will be interesting to see whether the 32-year-old gets the nod alongside Ugarte for Sunday’s much-awaited derby against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
United will need more defensive assurance despite City’s poor league form. Bruno Fernandes could play in attack, with Casemiro and Ugarte pairing up centrally.
The Red Devils are already playing catch-up in the top-four race with an eight-point gap. A win in the Manchester derby would definitely reduce the deficit.
Pep Guardiola’s side are eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
United can play a big part in ending their title prospects with a first win at the Etihad since 2021.
Stats from Fotmob.com.
