By Michael Madyira
Marcus Rashord continued with his incredible form, inspiring Manchester United to a 2-2 draw with Barcelona in a Uefa Europa League play-off, first-leg confrontation at Nou Camp.
The England international led United’s comeback, first cancelling Marcos Alonso’s 50th-minute strike two minutes later, before setting up Jules Kounde for an own goal just before the hour mark.
But Raphinha salvaged a draw for the Catalans, with 14 minutes to go as the Premier League giants claimed two away goals ahead of next week’s Old Trafford leg.
In South Africa, the limelight was on Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy, who has been receiving rave reviews for a sterling job on United forwards.
The Red Devils forwards coach has been credited for his incredible work with Erik Ten Hag’s attackers, particularly red-hot Rashford, who has struck 21 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions.
That Rashford was again influential to deny Barca victory reflected on McCarthy.
Barca almost went ahead 18 minutes into the contest, but Gavi shot over the bar with a volley before the visitors tried, with Jadon Sancho shooting just wide in response.
Some good goalkeeping from Marc-Andre ter Stegen denied Bruno Fernandes, in what was an open first half with a lot of space for both sides, but none could breach the other.
Another good save by Ter Stegen from Rashford’s first chance of the game was witnessed and Jordi Alba then outran Aaron Wan-Bissaka, but couldn’t complete the job after David De Gea was forced to a brilliant save.
Barca coach Xavi was forced to alter his plans when he lost Pedri to injury towards halftime and Sergi Roberto came on.
Just after the restart, Raphinha shot just wide, while action swung to the other end for Sancho to narrowly miss the target.
Former Chelsea defender Alonso then headed in a corner from Raphinha, five minutes after the start for his third goal since joining Barca at the beginning of this season.
Soon after, Rashford hit back for United and he was back with a powerful cross to force Kounde to turn the ball into his own net past Ter Stegen in the 59th minute.
As United appeared on course to victory, Robert Lewandowski acted as a decoy to allow Raphinha’s shot to fool De Gea for his seventh goal of the season.
Pictured above: Marcus Rashford celebrating
Image source: Manchester United
