A goalkeeping howler from Benfica’s Mile Svilar gave Manchester United all three points in Lisbon, as the Reds put themselves in a dominant position in their Champions League group.
José Mourinho made several changes to the side that drew to Liverpool at the weekend. Victor Lindelöf started on his return to the Estádio da Luz after signing for the Reds in the summer, while Juan Mata and Marcus Rashford came into the side for Ashley Young and Anthony Martial.
Benfica also sprung a couple of surprises, with Svilar becoming the youngest goalkeeper to start a Champions League, while defender Rúben Dias and winger Diogo Gonçalves were also handed European debuts.
The first half was a relatively turgid affair, and things largely remained the game until the game’s defining moment just past the hour mark. Rashford’s free-kick deep on the left-hand touchline managed to deceive Svilar in flight, and as the young Belgian caught the effort, he inexplicably carried the ball over the line, handing United the breakthrough in bizarre fashion.
And the scoreline remained the same until full-time, United dominating possession and seeing out the result. A poor night for the Portuguese champions got worse, as captain Luisão was sent off in injury-time for two yellows.
Mourinho will be the happy with the three points and the only concern will be Rashford, as he came off with a knock in the closing stages.
Here are the player ratings from the Portuguese capital:
