Manchester United returned to winning ways following their thrashing by Liverpool to beat Real Betis 4-1, while Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw away to Sporting Lisbon in the first leg of the Europa League last 16 on Thursday evening.
United’s 7-0 loss at Anfield on Sunday was their heaviest defeat ever and their worst since 1931.
Erik ten Hag’s decision to maintain the same starting lineup was rewarded with a return to form.
“You see how a team reacts after a setback,” said Ten Hag. “This is not the first time this season, I think you see five or six times we can reset and bounce back. This team has character so a big compliment to the team.”
Marcus Rashford gave United an early lead with his 26th goal of the season, but Ayoze Perez equalized for Betis against the run of play with a shot into the far corner.
Two of United’s most heavily criticized players in recent days made the difference in the second half.
Before Bruno Fernandes, who was again named captain by Ten Hag, headed in Luke Shaw’s corner, Antony curled a magnificent shot into the top corner of the goal.
“Bruno was brilliant today,” added Ten Hag. “He led the team from the first minute by his game in possession, making the rhythm of the game and scored a goal so I am happy.”
Six minutes later, Wout Weghorst scored his second goal in 15 appearances for United by pouncing from close range.
Arsenal, the leaders of the Premier League, were forced to come from behind to salvage a draw in Lisbon.
Mikel Arteta selected a strong team despite attempting to win the league for the first time in 19 years, and William Saliba gave the visitors the lead with a header.
Goncalo Inacio headed in Marcus Edwards’ corner kick to level the score for Sporting shortly thereafter.
Edwards then played a role in Sporting’s second goal, which was scored by Paulinho after he reacted quickest inside the box.
Granit Xhaka’s cross, however, deflected off the unfortunate Hidemasa Morita and rebounded into his own net shortly after the hour mark.
“Considering you concede two goals away from home and still escape with a draw you have to take some positives,” said Arsenal boss Arteta.
“But we gave them too much hope by giving the ball away in our own half too many times.”
