There was not a lot of action involving Manchester United players on Saturday when it comes to the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers.
Since Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba were left out of France’s squad, the only players that were expected to play this Saturday were Daley Blind, Romelu Lukaku, Marouane Fellaini and Victor Lindelöf. Did they help their teams to get positive results?
UEFA World Cup Qualifiers: Belarus vs Netherlands
Daley Blind once again started at left back for the Netherlands in their match against Belarus. And even though they escaped with a 3-1 win on the road, things are tough if they want to make it to Russia since Sweden remains ahead of them on the standings by three points.
Blind did not have a lot of work considering the Netherlands dominated the entire match. The former Ajax star finished the game with three clearances and two interceptions, as well as one key pass and 12 crosses (four accurate).
Expect the versatile defender to remain in the starting XI for Netherlands’ final match against Sweden at home.
UEFA World Cup Qualifiers: Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belgium
Romelu Lukaku and Marouane Fellaini were among the available players for Belgium’s game against Bosnia. However, aside from the fact that Belgium won 4-3 on the road, no positive news came for both Manchester United players.
Fellaini started at central midfield. However, he left the game with an injury in the 29th minute and Leander Dendoncker took his place. Manchester United have not said anything about the extent of Fellaini’s injury. However, his availability for the match against Liverpool next week is now in question. As for Lukaku, the towering striker did not even make the bench due to an ankle injury.
Considering both outcomes, both players are doubtful for next weekend’s match against Liverpool. And Belgium remain at top of Group H with 25 points.
UEFA World Cup Qualifiers: Sweden vs Luxembourg
Sweden had an easy fixture against Luxembourg, knowing a win would put them closer to a playoff berth. And the Swedes lived up to the expectations with an expressive 8-0 win at home. Marcus Berg emerged as the star of the game, though. The Al-Ain forward contributed with four goals.
Victor Lindelöf started at centre-back alongside Andreas Granqvist, but did not have a lot of work. The former Benfica player finished with two clearances and one interception during the entire match. But the most important thing is that Sweden are on the verge of securing a World Cup berth. They need to avoid a loss against Blind and the Netherlands to secure their playoff spot.
And as it has been the case all year long, Lindelöf will play a big role in the team’s plans.
Leave a Reply