Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandez has written to former team-mate Juan Mata, praising the veteran midfielder for his outstanding performance in the Melbourne derby.
Still understand
Mata moved to A-League side Melbourne Victory from Western Sydney last September.
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He has started 15 league games for Victory and although he has provided many assists, he has struggled to score. However, he put those issues firmly behind him as he orchestrated a 3-1 victory over Melbourne City at AAMI Park.
The Spaniard broke the deadlock after 21 minutes, cleverly lobbying goalkeeper Patrick Beach from 40 yards out. In a spot where many people would touch the ball, the elegant Mata took the first ball and beat the goalkeeper well outside the goal.
Max Caputo restored parity shortly after the half-hour mark but Mata put his side ahead again with another eye-catching goal.
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The former Manchester United man showed great composure and skill before curling his left-footed wand past Beech from the edge of the box.
Clarisse Mario Santos also scored for Victory with an assist from Mata. The victory moved Victory up to fifth in the A-League table, six points behind leaders Newcastle Jets.
Fernandes appeared to capture Mata’s heroics as he sent a lovely message to his pals on social media.
Fernandez sent a message
Fernandez first posted a video of Mata’s first goal with the caption “What a player.”
The Portugal international then showed a second video of Mata celebrating his second goal. Fernandez wrote: “Special player.”
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The second post was accompanied by a heart emoji.
Mata spent eight years at Manchester United, helping the club win three major trophies including the Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup.
He made 285 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 51 goals.
Featured image Daniel Pockett via Getty Images
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