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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
David McDonnell

Anthony Elanga breaks Man Utd Champions League record against Atletico Madrid

Anthony Elanga was Manchester United's hero in Madrid as he rescued them from defeat with his first Champions League goal.

At 19 years and 302 days, Elanga became United's youngest ever goalscorer in the Champions League knockout stage with his 80th-minute strike.

The 19-year-old had only been on the pitch for four minutes but kept a cool head to score what could prove a vital goal with his first touch of the ball.

“I've dreamt of moments like this, scoring in the Champions League against top European teams like Atletico Madrid,” said Elanga. “It's a dream come true.

"I told you how calm and cool I am and, whenever I'm given an opportunity, I want to repay the manager and give 150 per cent every time I step onto the pitch.

“I just do what I can do, I want to be the best player on the pitch and I appreciate the boss.

"You've got to stay in the game because anything can happen. We didn't play the best in the first half but improved after the substitutions in the second half.

"The manager said to me to make the defenders scared and run in behind and, when I get the opportunity, to take it.

“I wanted a good result for the fans because they came a long way.

“But it's only the first half. We have to be ready for the second-half at Old Trafford.”

United interim boss Ralf Rangnick hailed Elanga and urged more of his players to follow the teenager's approach to playing with a smile on their faces.

"He is playing as though it is a dream come true,” said Rangnick. “It's a joy and fun to watch him play - I wish a few other players would take him as an example and as a role model.

“After the performance in the first half, it could only get better. I still can’t believe our first half.

“We have to play better, I was very disappointed. No risks, without any deep runs, with or without the ball. We have to be more aggressive. We need more deep runs.”

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