Casemiro celebrates Manchester United's victory.
Credit: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
(Reuters) --
Brazil striker Antony came off the bench to send Manchester United to the last 16 of the Europa League.
The English team, who played at home, came from behind to beat FC Barcelona 2-1 in the second leg on Thursday, with an aggregate score of 4-3.
After a frantic start, Barça were awarded a penalty in the 18th minute, much to United's frustration, after Bruno Fernandes was ruled to have fouled defender Alejandro Balde, and Robert Lewandowski simply managed the resulting penalty kick.
Antony scored the winning goal.
Credit: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
United came out into the second half a different team and equalized through Fred, the Brazilian finishing a Fernandes pass two minutes after the break.
A superb save from goalkeeper David de Gea kept Barca's Jules Kounde at bay, a save that proved crucial as Antony finished with a superb strike into the bottom corner shortly after with 17 minutes from time.
Sergio Busquets applauds the supporters of the Catalan team at the Manchester stadium.
Credit: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Victory means United remain in four competitions this season, seeking a first trophy since 2017 on the horizon.
Europa League FC Barcelona Manchester United