The Reds conceded an early Joao Felix goal in a disappointing first half at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium but produced an improved performance after the break to earn a valuable 1-1 draw, thanks mainly to substitute Anthony Elanga’s cool equaliser with his very first touch of the game.
Ralf Rangnick’s men were buoyed by that riposte and, against a tiring home side, searched for a second goal in the closing moments, with replacement Jesse Lingard going closest with a driven shot.
In the end, United settled for a very decent 1-1 draw that sets up a tantalising second leg at Old Trafford in March, with a place in the competition’s quarter-finals well and truly up for grabs.