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Two of Manchester United's poorest players this season came to the rescue Tuesday with big second-half moments in a 1-0 win over FC Copenhagen that keeps their Round Off 16 qualification hopes Alive for now.
Maguire headed home a cross from substitute Christian Eriksen in the 72nd minute to provide United a much-needed lead. Onana, another player under pressure in the early stage of this season, saved a decisive penalty in the last kick of the game. Jordan Larsson, the son of former United striker Henrik Larsson got denied by the former Ajax and Inter Milan shot stopper.
"It was meant to be," Maguire said. "We were meant to win the game, a magnificent save and a win dedicated to Sir Bobby and his family."
After back-to-back losses to open Group A, this was a huge victory for Erik ten Hag's team ahead of the return match against Copenhagen in two weeks.
Maguire was stripped of the captaincy in the offseason and appeared close to a move to West Ham. But he stayed, has continued to get game time with the England national team, and now is back in Ten Hag's team. He started United's last three games in all competitions. It was his first goal since February 2022 and it was a special one.
"I have been given an opportunity. I want to help the team and get the club back to where it should be," Maguire said.
Onana arrived under pressure to change United's style of play through his distribution from the back. The Cameroon goalkeeper has made a number of high-profile errors.
This was Onana's best game for United, not just by the penalty save after Scott McTominay's foul on Elyounoussi but by his wonderful flying stop to keep out Lukas Lerager's powerful drive in the 50th minute.
There were pre-match tributes to Sir Bobby Charlton, including Ten Hag laying a wreath in the center circle before a minute's silence.
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