QFs Make Man U Europa League Favourites
Australia’s Manchester United fans got a treat on Thursday, when the English team won their second Europa League quarter-final tie against Anderlecht 2-1 at Old Trafford. After a 1-1 draw in their first tie in Belgium, it was enough to put Man U through to the semis.
For the Red Devils, the win has significance beyond the 2016-17 UEFA Europa League. Out of the running for the FA Cup and currently down at fifth on the English Premier League ladder, United can automatically qualify for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League if they win the Europa League finals.
Thursday’s match was uneven, with a strong start for the home side, when Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored 10 minutes in. However, Sofiane Hanni put away an equaliser off a rebound in the 32nd minute to bring Anderlecht level.
United missed several chances in the second half, and at full time the aggregate scores were still tied at 2-2. Marcus Rashford scored the decider in extra time, leaving Man U the 21/20 favourites to win the cup.
Lyon, Ajax and Celta Vigo Also Through
At 13/5, Lyon is currently second favourite with the bookies to take the championship. The French side beat Besiktas 2-1 at home in the first tie, but the Istanbul rematch saw the Turkish side win 2-1, and the aggregate score remain tied after extra time. The tie was broken by a penalty shootout, which Lyon won 7-6.
Ajax are also a team that might attract attention from Aussie punters in the semis. They won their home QF tie against Schalke 04 comfortably enough, 2-0. In the rematch, however, two goals for Schalke within the first three minutes of the second half, then a third 30 minutes later, put the Dutch team’s semis berth in jeopardy.
Nick Viergiver managed a goal just before full time that brought the aggregate score level again, before a final score from Amin Younes in extra time put Ajax through. Punters can currently get odds of 7/1 on them winning the tournament.
Celta Vigo is the fourth team in the semi-finals. After beating Belgian side Genk 3-2 in the first tie at home, Vigo were content with a one-all draw away on Thursday night. They’re being offered at 6/1 to win the 2016-17 Europa League.
More About Cameron Hollands
After working part time in one of Australia’s finest casinos to fund his journalism studies, Cameron Hollands discovered a passion for sports betting. A few years and many successful bets later, he is now putting his considerable experience to good use, and is a regular contributor for australiansportsbetting.net.
Cameron’s expert advice, insight into the sporting world and straightforward reporting style has earned him many fans, and he enjoys sharing his expertise with fellow punters.
You May Also Like:
Tommy Watson Resigns As Lambert Coach
Lambert football coach Tommy Watson has announced his decision to step down after only two seasons coaching the Longhorns. Watson also said he plans on accepting the role of head ….
Landmark Maternity Ruling For Football
Going forward, England’s professional female football players will enjoy maternity cover as well as long-term sickness insurance as part of their contracts. The landmark decision was hailed a massive step ….
FIFA Confirms Investigation Into Gabon Abuse
World governing body FIFA has now confirmed the official opening of an investigation following allegations of sexual abuse in Gabonese football. The investigation will be conducted by FIFA’s independent ethics ….
Norwich’s Dan Barden Diagnosed With Cancer
Norwich goalie Dan Barden has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. According to a statement issued by Norwich City this week, the 20-year-old will be closely monitored during his entire time ….
Olyroos Sanctioned For Bad Behaviour
Australia’s Olympic Football contingency has been admonished for poor behaviour put on during a flight back home from the Tokyo Olympics. While Football Australia has reportedly imposed sanctions on the ….