Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Manchester United took a big step towards securing Champions League football with a 2-1 win over Brentford at Old Trafford. Early goals from Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko gave them control, and despite a late goal from Mathias Jensen, they held on. The result keeps United third in the table, now 11 points clear of sixth place, meaning they need just two more points from four games to confirm a Champions League return.United came out strong, creating chances within minutes. After early pressure, Casemiro opened the scoring with a header from a corner, continuing his recent good form. The veteran midfielder, who could leave at the end of the season, celebrated passionately as fans urged him to stay. Brentford had a few chances through Igor Thiago and others but couldn’t convert, and United made them pay. Just before half-time, Sesko finished off a smooth move started by Amad Diallo and set up by Bruno Fernandes, doubling the lead.United slowed down in the second half, allowing Brentford to grow into the game. Jensen’s brilliant long-range goal in the 87th minute made things tense, but United managed to stay composed in the final moments.Under interim manager Michael Carrick, United have recovered well after a difficult spell earlier in the season. With a crucial clash against Liverpool coming up, this win strengthens their position as they push to finish in the top three and return to Europe’s top competition.
