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Red Devils International Performances

Yesterday, five Manchester United players too to the international stage: Juan Mata and David De Gea suited up for Spain against Macedonia and; Wayne Rooney, Luke Shaw and Chris Smalling took to the Wembley pitch to play Switzerland.

Spain beat Macedonia 1-0 with De Gea keeping an clean sheet, and playing the full game and Juan Mata getting the assist on the only goal of the tie.

Mata took a free kick which was cleared and distributed back to him, then he ran down the edge of the box. He then crossed the ball in, which lobbed the keeper hit the back post, then rebounded off of the keeper to go into the net.

Spain dominated Macedonia in every way, once they went 1 up they just played keep ball, and De Gea didn’t have to save a single shot on target.

The England game was much more entertaining. It was a well fought match with the first half ending in a stalemate. Both sides really wanted the win and Switzerland started to tear into the England defence towards the end of the first half.

Smalling looked solid all game, keeping the Swiss at bay. He showed off his strength, pace and vision whilst making many crucial tackles.

Probably his best tackle of the game stopped a Shaqiri attack. He was being pulled down by the winger but he kept his balance and put in a fantastic slide tackle. But, the seemingly blind referee, booked the defender for his efforts.

Smalling ended the game as Man of the Match, despite the records broken by team mate Wayne Rooney.

Luke Shaw was another Red Devil defenseman who put in a solid performance. Not only was his defending good but his attacking mentality earned him an assist on Harry Kane’s goal.

The left back surged to the by-line and sent a low cross into the box, which was well timed to sit behind the onrushing defensive line. Harry Kane then ran in to shoot the loose ball into the back of the net.

But, the man of the hour, Wayne Rooney, is the one who will be remembered from this game. His powerful penalty broke 2 England goal scoring records and had a pretty good game in the second half.

Once Harry Kane was subbed onto the field, in place of Jonjo Shelvey, Rooney was able to work back, help the midfield and feed the other forwards. At the end of the game, he thanked Roy Hodgson for giving him freedom in his play.

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By Ben

Recently graduated university, life now revolves around sports, and writing about sport.

Has an intricate knowledge of Ice Hockey and World Football but also dabbles in American Football and Heavyweight boxing.

He's a very versatile and hard working writer, who uses exceptional English in each article.

Trying to get his name out there to hopefully become a professional sports writer.

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