Man United move closer to knockout rounds

Manchester United are just a point away from progressing to the last 16 of the Champions League, and in keeping with recent performances, they earned this 2-0 win over Benfica in the most functional way. It will not live long in the memory, and they had a slice of luck when, just before half-time, Benfica goalkeeper Mile Svilar unwittingly scored an own goal that broke the deadlock. By that stage, Anthony Martial had already missed a penalty. Daley Blind went on to score one in the second half to confirm United's win, as well as all but confirm the Portuguese side's exit from the competition.

Lukaku has now gone six competitive games without a goal, but surely any concern has to be tempered. He missed two first-half opportunities on Tuesday, but neither fell into the "sitter" category, and this run of form has to be put in the context of what he's working with. For long periods, he worked hard alone up front, supported at times by the lively runs of Martial down the left flank, and he can hardly be blamed for the lack of service coming his way. On another night, he might have scored just before half-time, with Svilar saving as he ran through, but that chance came through slack defending and not the guile of his United teammates.