After André Onana’s last-minute penalty stop preserved a 1-0 victory over Copenhagen in the Champions League, Erik ten Hag praised Manchester United’s camaraderie.

With the final touch of the match, Onana palmed Jordan Larsson’s spot-kick wide, and the whole bench of replacements surged onto the field to celebrate. Harry Maguire’s header gave United the lead in the 72nd minute, and a draw would have put the home team in danger. Conversely, the victory will provide momentum heading into the second half of the group stage.

“In the dressing room, there is a very good spirit; they are together, they fight together, they celebrate together, and they support each other if we have setbacks,” Ten Hag stated. I believe that a successful team constantly needs that spirit. Although it was a close call, the victory was well-deserved.

Since joining from Internazionale in the summer, Onana has drawn a lot of criticism. However, his bravery on a poignant night at Old Trafford, when those gathered inside honored the late Sir Bobby Charlton, may mark a turning point. “He demonstrated personality,” Ten Hag remarked of the goalie.

“He is aware of his abilities and skill levels; nevertheless, he did not match them and still has room to improve. Nevertheless, both the performance on Saturday and tonight were excellent. He is an excellent penalty taker.

Although Maguire has also received a lot of criticism lately, he made his third consecutive start—the first under Ten Hag—and gave his manager a calm and successful performance at the back.

Ten Hag stated: “I think he is dominating his opponents because he is playing much more proactively in possession, stepping in, passing vertically, and defending on the front foot. He is also very confident in duels.” He scored a really nice goal, Christian made a wonderful pass, and the finish was excellent.

The next two Champions League games for United are tough travels to Copenhagen and Istanbul to play Galatasaray, with a home finale against Bayern Munich.

Head coach of Copenhagen, Jacob Neestrup, left Manchester a frustrated man. “I wouldn’t play the game any differently, and we are at the end of our options today,” he remarked. “We performed well enough to tie the game and win.”