Diallo’s two goals lift united to a long-awaited victory, as Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side finally secured three points in Europe after a year of disappointing results

Manchester United has ended its 380-day European drought with a 2-0 victory over PAOK in the Europa League, thanks to an inspired performance from Amad Diallo. After a string of disappointing draws and failures in European competitions, United finally recorded a win, with Diallo’s first-half header and second goal in the 67th minute sealing the three points.

The match was a story of frustration and potential for the home side, who struggled to convert chances despite dominating possession, holding 65% of the ball. Diallo was the standout performer, providing the breakthrough in the 50th minute with a looping header after a brilliant delivery from Bruno Fernandes. His second goal, a powerful strike from the right side, came after a determined battle with Paok’s Abdul Baba. Diallo shrugged off Baba’s challenge and fired into the bottom corner, via a deflection, to double United’s lead.

Although United enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, they had difficulty finishing chances, a recurring issue throughout their European campaign. Garnacho’s missed opportunities, coupled with some profligate passing in the final third, left United with little room to relax in the face of Paok’s occasional counter-attacks. A close call came just before halftime when Mady Camara’s long-range shot clipped the fingertips of United goalkeeper André Onana before going over.

Rúben Amorim’s Paok team was disciplined, creating some nervous moments for the home side but never truly threatening a goal. United’s defensive changes, including rotating Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt, did not appear to disrupt the team’s dominance. However, it was clear that despite their control, they were not yet ruthless enough to secure a comfortable victory early.

Diallo’s two goals were a much-needed spark for the team, and his performance was praised by interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, who acknowledged that the second goal encapsulated everything Diallo is about persistence, skill, and quality. However, the game highlighted ongoing issues for United, particularly their inability to consistently convert their dominance into goals.

United’s win was a vital one, especially with the challenge of their upcoming match against Leicester this Sunday. Diallo’s form will be crucial, but the team’s overall finishing must improve if they are to build on this victory.