Mata in moving tribute to Munich victims and their families

Juan Mata dedicated Manchester United’s victory against Huddersfield to the victims of the Munich disaster and their families.

Tuesday is the 60th anniversary of the air disaster that killed 23 people as United made their way back from a European Cup tie at Red Star Belgrade.

Old Trafford fell silent on Saturday as the victims were remembered ahead of a match against Huddersfield that Jose Mourinho’s men would win 2-0.

“Obviously it was a special game, a very sad memory,” United midfielder Mata said.

“It was a thing that changed the history of the club and the club showed the passion and the energy that we all have in Manchester United.

“So, we pay respect to the victims and their families, and they will always be in our memories.

“It was a game to win for them and we did it.”

United had to dig deep, stay patient and keep at a high tempo to eventually break down stubborn Huddersfield.

Mata’s fine cross was met by an equally impressive Romelu Lukaku finish as Mourinho’s Reds broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, with Alexis Sanchez then slotting home his first goal for the club after his initial spot-kick was saved.

“It was the kind of game that we needed to have, trying to score from the beginning,” Mata said.

“We knew they were going to come here and are a very well-organised side. It took some time to score the first goal and to open the game.

“But I think we did what we had to which was press up, play in the other half, recover the ball as soon as possible and play with intensity.

“I think today we did a good job.”

 

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