Manchester United got through this test thanks to Chris Smalling’s 53rd minute winner as the England centre-half maintained his wonderful form this season.
The victory was clinched by an Englishman but inspired by a Spaniard.
And after another mixed week for Premier League clubs in Europe, we should be grateful for all the help we can get.
Manchester United got through this test thanks to Chris Smalling’s 53rd minute winner as the England centre-half maintained his wonderful form this season.
But, make no mistake, this was all about Juan Mata as the magical Spaniard ran the show at Old Trafford and ensured United got their first points on the board in Group B.
Mata won a penalty, scored it and created the winner for Smalling. The former Chelsea forward - how Jose Mourinho could do with him now - was electric as he tore Wolfsburg apart.
Even when United fell behind early on, it was Mata who led the fight back, creating everything good to bring some much needed cheer for English football.
At times it was far from convincing as defensively United looked suspect and Louis Van Gaal’s tactics and team selection sometimes make you think he tries to be too clever for his own good.
Antonio Valencia went off at half time but rather than switch Matteo Darmian, he stayed at left back and Ashley Young played out of position at right back. No wonder the United players get confused.
Just shy of £250m spent and Van Gaal still hasn’t built a defence and, ultimately, that is what will surely undo United’s European campaign.
It is surely the biggest factor why English clubs are suffering in Europe. The art of defending is dying out in this country.
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