Dalot singles out two 'key' players in Man Utd victory in Europa League

Diogo Dalot believes the half-time introductions of Alejandro Garnacho and Amad provided the attacking spark Manchester United had been lacking in the first half of their 2-0 victory over FCSB at the National Arena.

United secured their place in the Europa League last 16 with a fifth consecutive European win, courtesy of goals from Dalot and Kobbie Mainoo.

The Portuguese defender opened the scoring on the hour mark, meeting Mainoo’s low cross at the back post.

Mainoo then sealed the result just eight minutes later, sweeping home a first-time finish after connecting with Garnacho’s cut-back.

Despite dominating the first half with 69% possession, United lacked a clinical edge.

Dalot felt Ruben Amorim’s double substitution was pivotal in breaking down the FCSB defense.

Speaking to MUTV, Dalot said: "I think the first half was about trying to understand where we could hurt them.

"In the second half, with Amad and Garna [Garnacho], we had more of a threat inside the final third and were a bit more direct."

Although United conceded a couple of half-chances after taking the lead, Dalot insisted they controlled the match and was pleased with the clean sheet.

"Even after the first goal, we conceded one or two chances that could have changed the game, but that was more down to a lack of focus than anything the opposition did.

"Overall, we’re really happy with the performance, the result, and another clean sheet, which is important for us. Getting straight into the next phase was our main goal, and we achieved that."

Dalot’s goal in Bucharest was his first of the season, and he hopes to contribute more offensively from the wing-back role.

"I feel I can do even more in attack. Our wide players need to be arriving in the box at the back post more often.

"You can see how many players we get into the box when we’re in the final third, and that’s something we need to take advantage of. If you’re not there, you’re not going to score."

With United progressing comfortably, Dalot and his teammates will now shift their focus to maintaining momentum in both domestic and European competitions.