Real Sociedad goes to the round of 16 as leader despite losing to Manchester United

Real Sociedad lost 1-0 at home against Manchester United but despite this They finished leader of their group in the Europa League, this Thursday in the sixth and last day, which allows them to go directly to the round of 16.

The Basque team had won the previous five games in the E bracket and was sure to get through this first phase, although he did not know if as first or as second.

He finished equal on 15 points with Manchester United (2nd) and also tied with that team in their individual duels, in which each won 1-0 as a visitor. Real Sociedad had also won by that result in the first round clash at Old Trafford.

The order in the standings was decided by overall goal difference, slightly in favor of Real Sociedad (+8 against +7).

Manchester United were left with a bitter taste after their victory, since a little more would have allowed them to be group leaders and achieve the direct ticket to eighths. Being second, the ‘Red Devils’ now have to go through an uncomfortable ‘playoff’ by way of round of 32, against one of the teams that finished third in the Champions League group stage.

The only goal of the game at the Reale Arena was signed by the 18-year-old Argentine Alejandro Garnachowith a shot with his left foot after being assisted by Cristiano Ronaldo, in the 17th minute.

Cristiano himself was close to signing the second for his team in 41raising too much in a heads up against Álex Remiro.

Shortly before the break, Real Sociedad had two good chances, through Pablo Marín and Andoni Gorosabel, but United’s Spanish goalkeeper, David De Gea, prevented the draw.

In the second half, Real Sociedad controlled the situation better and United were just one goal away from the group lead.