Coutinho’s Goal Sent Liverpool Into Last Eight of Europa League

Posted by African Examiner Latest Headlines, Sports News Friday, March 18th, 2016

Philippe Coutinho’s brilliant solo goal killed Manchester United’s hopes of a Europa League comeback and sent Liverpool into the last eight in comfort at Old Trafford.

Jurgen Klopp’s side were protecting a two-goal lead from the first leg at Anfield but Anthony Martial’s 32nd-minute penalty offered United brief hope after he was fouled by Nathaniel Clyne.

Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata had missed clear opportunities for United but Liverpool were also a threat as David de Gea saved superbly from Coutinho while Daniel Sturridge hit the bar with a free-kick and Jordan Henderson missed an open goal.

The away goal Liverpool threatened, and which left United needing four on the night, came right on half-time when Coutinho beat Guillermo Varela with ease before lifting a near-post finish past De Gea.

It ended the game as a contest with United unable to rouse themselves again as Liverpool completed the formalities to win the first European meeting between the two clubs.

Sadly, the final stages of the match were marred by clashes between supporters near the Liverpool corner of the ground – and it remains to be seen if UEFA take any action.

BBC