Madrid: Manchester United defeated Villarreal 2-0 away from home to earn their place in the Champions League last-16. Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho scored the goals.

The victory came just three days after United fired Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and for much of the game, United trailed Villarreal, who dominated possession but were thwarted by some outstanding saves from David de Gea. Donny van de Beek, Anthony Martial, Fred, and Alex Telles all started for caretaker coach Michael Carrick, who made four changes from the 4-1 defeat at Watford on November 20 that lost Solskjaer his job.

Meanwhile, Villarreal welcomed back Danjuma, Pervis Estupinan, Moi Gomez, and Yeremy Pino, who started brightly, with Gomez drawing a smart stop from David de Gea before Yeremy blasted into the side netting. De Gea was once again forced into action as Villarreal dominated possession, allowing Yeremy to set up Manu Trigueros for a first-time shot that the Manchester United goalkeeper parried excellently.

As the half came to a close, United came into the game more, with Ronaldo headed Telles' cross straight at Villarreal goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. The second half started slowly before Villarreal regained control and started passing through the United middle. Before Danjuma fired over, De Gea did superbly to get a hand on Mio Gomez's deflected shot.

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