Staff Reporter.
Manchester United allowed a late away goal to draw 1-1 with AC Milan in their Europa League last-16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.
Amad Diallo’s stunning header five minutes into the second half looked like giving United a first-leg lead.
But Milan, who had already been harshly denied a goal when Franck Kessie’s first-half volley was ruled out for handball, replied when Simon Kjaer evaded the attentions of Nemanja Matic at a corner right at the death and steered a near-post header past Dean Henderson.
It was the least a Milan side lacking former United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic deserved.
It was tough luck on Amad, who scored in quite brilliant fashion with his first effort on goal in only his third appearance for the Red Devils.
The Ivorian raced onto Bruno Fernandes’ brilliant chipped pass five minutes after replacing Anthony Martial at half-time, then, with his back to goal, close to the penalty spot, Amad looped the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma and into the net.
The two sides will play the return match next Thursday at the San Siro.
Meanwhile Rangers recovered from an early set-back to earn a creditable away draw to Slavia Prague in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie.
They trailed after just six minutes when Nicolae Stanciu thumped in a stunning opener.
But Filip Helander tapped home a vital away goal to level before half-time.
The strike – which came against the run of play – could prove crucial in the tie, with the Czech champions travelling to Ibrox next Thursday.
Goalkeeper Allan McGregor ensured the score remained level with an outrageous diving save in the final minute after a thundering header.
Rangers have been riding the crest of a wave this season and remain unbeaten in Europe, but the question in Prague was how jaded they might feel after Sunday’s coronation sparked wild celebrations.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰
✅ Wins for Villarreal and Ajax
? All level in Prague and ManchesterBest performance? ?#UEL
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 11, 2021