Manchester United advanced straight to the Europa League last 16 as Kobbie Mainoo scored one and assisted another to help Ruben Amorim's side to a win at FCSB.
After a relatively drab first 60 minutes in Bucharest Mainoo's low pass found wing-back Diogo Dalot, who was unmarked at the back post to comfortably tap United ahead.
Eight minutes later the England midfielder got on to the scoresheet by side-footing home Alejandro Garnacho's cut-back.
Amorim opted to start Mainoo in a more advanced position and the midfielder rewarded the Portuguese's call with his first goal of the season, having not hit the net since United's win in last season's FA Cup final.
"I enjoyed it," the 19-year-old told TNT Sports after full-time. "I am just happy to be on the pitch for Manchester United."
The visitors end the competition's league phase in third, and will play one of Real Sociedad, Galatasaray, AZ Alkmaar or FC Midtjylland in a last-16 tie in March.
They avoid a two-legged play-off round in February, which after the match Amorim said would be "really important" to give his players more time to train and "build connections".
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Amorim changes make the difference
Manchester United turned things on after the restart in Romania having played out a largely forgettable first half.
Amorim had been resting attackers Amad Diallo and Garnacho but bought the pair on at half-time for left wing-back Tyrell Malacia and defensive midfielder Toby Collyer.
One minute and 20 seconds later Garnacho hit the post after a defensive mix-up allowed him through on goal.
The Red Devils looked much stronger with Garnacho and Diallo in the wide positions and Bruno Fernandes was soon able to find enough space to rattle a long-range strike from distance against the crossbar.
As the visitors pushed forward through their wing-backs, FCSB's defence crumbled. An overlapping Dalot was in the right place at the right time to tap in Mainoo's 60th-minute cross.
United's second goal also came from fine wide play as Garnacho reached the byeline before putting things on a plate for teenager Mainoo.
Out-of-favour midfielder Casemiro came on in the 72nd minute to make his first United appearance since December 30.
FCSB had opportunities, rattling the crossbar through Daniel Birligea moments after United's opener.
Mihai Popescu also almost turned in Risto Radunovic's wide free-kick in the first half.
But those attacks were rarities. United always looked in control and, in a competition where the winner gets a Champions League spot, are the only side still unbeaten.
Source: BBC
BDST: 1247 HRS, JAN 31, 2025
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