Manchester United 1-1 AC Milan: 5 talking points as Simon Kjaer's late equalizer spoils Amad Diallo's party | UEFA Europa League 2020-21

#3. Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer got it all wrong after going a goal up

Bruno Fernandes celebrates after setting up Amad Diallo

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made a mistake by withdrawing Manchester United's only playmaker Bruno Fernandes in the 73rd minute and replacing him with Fred. To make matters worse, he subbed two more defenders in the form of Brandon Williams and Luke Shaw.

The Norwegian got his substitutes absolutely wrong, allowing AC Milan to go all-in at the opposite end. With fewer players to worry about at the back, the visitors pushed bodies up-front. They were finally rewarded for their resilience when Kjaer equalized late in the game.

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#2. The defenders took the spotlight from the forwards

Simon Kjaer celebrates after equalizing against Manchester United

Both sets of defenders put in scintillating performances on Thursday.

Eric Bailly and Harry Maguire were brilliant for Manchester United defensively. With the Red Devils not creating much up front and AC Milan rallying back at them, the duo had a huge responsibility. They did not disappoint and played their part to perfection at the back.

Meanwhile, Kjaer and Fikayo Tomori were immense for AC Milan. The two players were not as troubled as Manchester United's defenders, but they managed to deal with whatever came their way. Kjaer even went on to score the Rossoneri's only goal of the night to top off his solid display.

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#1. The tie is wide open

Both Manchester United and AC Milan had their fair share of chances on the night but failed to take them.

Manchester United failed to seal the tie as Maguire and James both passed up big opportunities to score. Meanwhile, Krunic failed to convert a big chance on the opposite end.

It will be an interesting return leg next week as both sides battle it out for a spot in the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

Frustrating to concede a last minute goal but there’s still much to play next week.Congrats @Amaddiallo_19 on your first goal 👌🤝 pic.twitter.com/suqpd60j0Q

— Bruno Fernandes (@B_Fernandes8) March 11, 2021