Champions League: Manchester United 0-1 Barcelona, 5 Talking Points

Modified Jun 07, 2019 08:01 GMT

Suarez celebrates after his effort - later credited as a Shaw own goal - was given

#3 Nelson Semedo's impressive influence proves quietly pivotal

Semedo relished his battle with Dalot down the right, provided width and was defensively sound

Semedo certainly picked the opportune time to deliver one of his best performances this season and despite Barca's creative struggles, the Portuguese international was unfazed on both sides of the pitch.

Alongside Gerard Pique, the 25-year-old was comfortably the visitors' best performer on an evening where they didn't have things all their way and needed dependable players to step up to play them out of difficult situations.

Semedo ran throughout, causing Dalot and Shaw problems down the flank while proving composed defensively and making important interventions when called upon. He provided width, created chances with intelligent passes too and should've had an assist, if not for Suarez's wastefulness in front of goal.

His acceleration and determination to win 50/50 duels proved key in helping Barca play their way out of tricky situations, meaning he was a reliable outlet and oozed class that we haven't seen too often from the former Benfica full-back.

Edited by Samya Majumdar