Neestrup: We gave our fans something to shout about

F.C. Copenhagen head coach Jacob Neestrup says he wouldn't have changed anything about the Lions' approach to their UEFA Champions League clash with Manchester United, despite the 1-0 defeat.

A Harry Maguire header proved the difference between the teams at Old Trafford but it was FCK who twice hit the post before the winning goal was converted.

Jordan Larsson saw a stoppage-time penalty saved, while Denis Vavro and Lukas Lerager both tested Andre Onana from range.

Reflecting on the performance, Neestrup told FCK.dk: "For 95 minutes we were totally in the game. We were better in the first half and they started the second half better. But the last 15 minutes was equal.

"I think we did everything we could today to create the game picture we wanted, but games at this level are decided by small things. To stay in the game you need to stay in the situation and Maguire's goal was it.

"We were that close to keeping the game alive and possibly winning all three points. It was a tipping moment when United scored the goal so we cannot do anything more today, I would not have played the game in a different way. We gave ourselves the opportunity not just to get the draw but to win the game."

On Larsson's penalty miss, Neestrup added: "Both myself and the players gave him a hug afterwards and nobody blames him because it's part of the game. But I hope he can have a little smile back on his face on Thursday when everyone comes back into training.

"It was either him or Kevin (Diks) who would take the penalty, and I prioritised the fresh legs, and therefore it was him."

Neestrup also reserved praise for the raucous FCK fans who filled the away end at Old Trafford.

"The fans were amazing, just amazing," he said. "We knew that if we as a team could do a proper job on the ball, make the opposition run a little bit more than they might have expected, then we would hear our fans throughout the game. I'm not surprised they were so good, and I'm grateful for them.

"This is an historic stadium and we pay it respect but you can't compare it to Parken. Parken is way more intense and we're looking forward to showing that when we play again in Copenhagen."