Lingard Strike Not Enough As Manchester United Falls to FC Astana

A second-half comeback inspired FC Astana to a memorable win over Manchester United on day five in the Europa League.

Jesse Lingard who was the captain for the night opened the scoring in the 10th minute. The forward had not scored for Manchester United since January but broke the run with a rasping low drive into the bottom corner. His first goal contribution for the team in 28 matches!

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Manchester United was composed especially in midfield and held on to go into the half leading by the solitary goal.

Astana came into the second period with renewed vigor but United still had the better chances. Tahith Chong was guilty of missing two clear opportunities. First, he shot over and then minutes later, the youngster chipped the ball over the bar when he had an open net to roll the ball.

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The home side equalized immediately after the howler from Chong. Dmitriy Shomko controlled the ball in the area before drilling a precise, low finish into the far corner. The first goal United have conceded in the Europa League this season.

Just five minutes later, Astana went ahead; Antonio Rukavina got forward and had plenty of space in the box, his cross was turned in by Manchester United defender Dishon Bernard.

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Manchester United huffed and puffed but could not find a way past a resolute Astana defense. The loss was the first for Manchester United in Europe this season. The Red Devils are top of the group but could be dethroned should Az Alkmaar beat Partizan in the other group match.

Focus now shifts to Sundays Premier League clash with Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

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