Harry Maguire and Andre Onana, two of Manchester United's biggest targets of fan criticism, earned a huge measure of redemption - and praise from manager Erik ten Hag - in the 1-0 victory over Copenhagen at Old Trafford.
Maguire, whose abuse from supporters had former player David Beckham reach out to him in support, headed home in the 72nd minute, while Onana saved a penalty in the final seconds of the match for United's first Champions League win of the season after consecutive defeats.
Ten Hag said defender Maguire, who was also excellent in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League win at Sheffield United, is playing much more proactively in possession.
"Stepping in passing vertical, defending also on front foot, stepping in defending forward, very confident in the duels, he is dominating his opponents," Ten Hag said.
"And then you see also a very good skill from him with his heading, great pass from Christian Eriksen as well but very good finish."
Onana has been harshly criticized since arriving from Inter Milan in the transfer window. There was nothing but love for the goalkeeper this time, however, after he dived left to push away Jordan Larsson's spot-kick.
"He showed personality, and he knows that before was not the level that his skills are ... and he could do better," Ten Hag said.
The victory, which began with a stirring tribute to club great Bobby Charlton, who died on Saturday at age 86, propelled United into third in Group A on three points after three games.
While United stumbled to a horrible start to their domestic season, they have won their last three games in all competitions - perfect timing for a hot streak, Ten Hag said, ahead of Sunday's derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford.
"There is a great spirit ... the team is more than the sum of the individuals," Ten Hag said. "That is what we have to take into the Manchester derby."
Ten Hag, Charlton's former teammate Alex Stepney, and Under 19s team captain Dan Gore followed a lone piper to the center of the pitch where the manager laid a wreath during the moving pre-game tribute to the World Cup winner and one of England and Manchester United's greatest players.
REUTERS
Andre Onana celebrates with Harry Maguire, left, after his penalty save. AP
Erik ten Hag carries a wreath as United honor Bobby Charlton at Old Trafford. AFP
