Sports
Sad Faces As Manchester United End Trophyless Season
By Ekene Dike
Manchester United fell short in the Europa League final against Villarreal as they lost 11-10 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time. David De Gea was the only player to miss in the penalty shootout as the Yellow Submarines won the combat.
The Red Devils had dominated possession for long spells but were stunned in the 29th minute when Gerard Moreno took a left-wing free kick to break the deadlock with his 30th goal of the season.
The opener once again highlighted United’s weakness defending set pieces in the absence of injured skipper, Harry Maguire, who remained an unused substitute throughout the clash in Poland.
Solskjaer’s men improved greatly following the break and levelled on 55 minutes when Edinson Cavani pounced to lash home a deflected shot from distance.
United continued to pose the greater threat but Villarreal stood firm to force extra time and then steal the glory after an epic run of penalties.
The victory means Villarreal, who finished seventh in La Liga, claimed the trophy in their first appearance in a major European final and ensures they will compete in the Champions League group stage next season. It also sees Unai Emery become the first manager to win the competition four times.
United will lament an inability to break down a stubborn rear-guard and will have to take solace in finishing second in the Premier League after ending another campaign without silverware.
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