Anthony Martial is a special talent.
Manchester United’s number nine came close to scoring two incredible individual goals and was the most dangerous player on the pitch in the Europa League quarter-final against FC Copenhagen in Cologne.
The Reds sealed their semi-final spot through Bruno Fernandes’ penalty early on in extra time, with Martial forcing the foul.
Granted, Martial was relatively quiet for the opening hour of the game, as United moved the ball too slowly.
But the Frenchman thrived against a tiring defence in the closing stages of normal time and was deserving of a goal after a series of marauding runs in extra-time.
Martial didn’t misplace a pass all evening, created three opportunities, and completed five successful take-ons.
It will be pleasing for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that his striker came into his own as the game wore on in what was a gruelling match in the Cologne heat.
Solskjaer has clearly found his first-choice striker at United and Martial will be vital to his side’s chances in Sunday’s semi-final against Wolves or Sevilla.
See Martial stats from United’s victory below, via top statistician Statman Dave on Twitter:
Anthony Martial’s game by numbers vs. F.C. Copenhagen:
100% pass accuracy
5 successful take-ons
4 passes into the box
4 shots (3 on target)
4 fouls suffered
3 chances created
2 ball recoveries
1 big chance created
1 penalty wonA really impressive display. 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/653SDrhOtn
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) August 10, 2020
READ MORE: Video: Bruno Fernandes strikes penalty perfectly to give United lead over FC Copenhagen
