Brondby manager Jesper Sorensen has provided a mixed reaction to Copenhagen’s Champions League group stage win over Manchester United on Wednesday night.
United dominated the proceedings in the opening 30 minutes at the Parken Stadium. Rasmus Hojlund put the club into a comfortable 2-0 lead on the road.
However, the complexion of the game changed after Marcus Rashford’s unfortunate red card. The hosts managed to pull level before the half-time break.
In the second half, United got themselves ahead through Bruno Fernandes from the penalty spot, but Copenhagen responded with two late goals to win 4-3.
Copenhagen will now host Brondby in the Super League and ahead of the derby, Sorensen was pleased with their victory and highlighted that the quality is high in the Danish top-flight.
He told reporters (via Ekstra Bladet): “I didn’t get to see the whole game because I had other things to do first. In fact, I only came into the game when it was 2-0 to Manchester United.”
“At least I saw that you should avoid getting a red card when playing against FCK.
“It is impressive that FCK could defeat Manchester United. I have the opinion that it is great when things go well for Danish club football on the big stage in Europe.
“This FCK victory also shows that the Super League is much better than many people think. The quality is high in our own Super League. This confirms the victory for FCK.”
However, the 50-year-old had his reservations over two incidents. He said that he was annoyed by more penalties being awarded for hand balls since the introduction of VAR.
He added: “I was about to turn off the flat screen when Manchester United got a penalty. Because it annoys me infinitely how it becomes so decisive when you gradually judge penalties for using hand on the ball.”
United conceded a penalty in the opening half after a Harry Maguire hand ball, but they got one of their own after the break. The latter of those penalties was decided through VAR.
It put the Red Devils on course for a 3-2 victory with 10 men, but they could not hold on. The result could have been entirely different, had Rashford not received his marching orders.
United have no time to ponder over the result and they need to return to winning ways against newcomers Luton Town in the Premier League. On paper, it should be a straightforward victory.
The Hatters picked up a surprise point against Liverpool at Kenilworth Road last weekend. United can’t take them lightly, but they should beat them by a convincing scoreline at Old Trafford.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
