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A sensational last few minutes from Manchester United helped them beat the mighty Juventus at their own den. Manchester United are historically known for their comebacks in the UEFA Champions League and they pulled it off again, after a long time. A sensational Juan Mata strike and an own goal helped them gain a much needed victory in Group H.
Considering that Juventus haven't lost a group stage match since 2009/10 and their current form, this is a monumental result ahead of the crucial Manchester derby this week. Juventus are one of the best defensive sides in Europe and Cristiano Ronaldo, their recent recruit, scored against his former club to make it 1-0 before a strong cameo from Manchester United.
Juan Mata, who scored a free kick to level the scores added: “What a nice last five minutes! To get three points against Juventus in Italy is amazing. It was very difficult. They have fantastic players and are a top team but we’re going back to Manchester with three points. "
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There is no doubt that he resonates confidence just like the whole Manchester United team and their fans right now. Let us quickly evaluate what this tie meant for both Juventus and Manchester United
#1 Jose Mourinho isn't done yet
Jose Mourinho, the current Manchester United boss, got huge amount of criticisms from some fans and critics alike due to the poor performance of United. He is known for his poor 3rd seasons as evident from his previous clubs but Manchester United board will not want to change their manager at the middle of the season.
Lately, that has changed with the team showing more fighting spirit and courage in recent games. He took the spotlight with his crazy celebration in reply to a hostile Turin crowd after the match. But that should not cloud the fact that Manchester United, led by Jose Mourinho just hit above their belt by beating Juventus.
Jose Mourinho's stand with his top signings and the team's initial performance did not bode well with the fans. And Manchester United desperately needs their manager at his best if they hope to win something this season.
#2 No place for complacency
After signing a player like Cristiano Ronaldo, it is no secret that Juventus' main aim is to succeed in the Europa. They have won Seria A titles at ease in the last decade but failed to win the more reputed UEFA Champions League, falling to spanish giants like Barcelona and Real Madrid in recent years.
The results could have easily been in their favour last night. Juventus were ahead with more possession and more shots on target but failed to capitalize on their chances. Juventus were clearly the better team when they faced off a fortnight ago at Old Trafford and Manchester United left it very late at Turin to grab the win.
No matter how successful the teams are in their own country, the UEFA Champions League is a different challenge. Lions fall in their own den and there are no such things as underdogs. Real Madrid proved this exact thing over the last five years although their performance in the La Liga were poor.
Juventus must realize and move on from this rare 'upset' if they want to find success in Europe. There is no place for complacency as was proved yesterday.
#3 Manchester derby won't be one way street
Manchester United are currently seventh on English Premier League table and nine points behind league leaders Manchester City. But their win against Juventus will be a confidence booster for sure. They have won their last three out of their six games after coming back from a goal down.
Their newfound positivity and resilience will be useful when they face the mighty and unstoppable Manchester City on Sunday. Manchester City under Pep Guardiola seems to be walking away with the League till now.
Jose Mourinho and this team deserves credit for their recent performances. His substitutions against Juventus made the difference and he is crucial in instilling a more courageous outlook in the recent games.
Anthony Martial is another positive for Manchester United with his terrific run of form. Manchester United need more luck and resilience to beat City and rest of the forwards must step up if they hope to garner any points from Manchester City.
