Harry Maguire's second-half header was the difference between the two sides, but goalkeeper Andre Onana also played a vital role in the win with a crucial penalty save deep in stoppage time.

The Red Devils started the game slowly and Copenhagen had the better chances in the opening stages. Diogo Goncalves hit the post after just five minutes, and five minutes into the second half they came close again, only to be denied by a super save from Onana.

United began to improve after the break and half-time substitute Christian Eriksen forced an equally good save from Copenhagen's goalkeeper soon after. Eriksen was then central to the goal, delivering a pinpoint cross from the right-hand side for Maguire to head home.

Copenhagen threw everything at United in the closing stages and were awarded a penalty in the 95th minute for a handball by Bruno Fernandes. However, Onana was up to the task once again, making a stunning save to preserve the win for his side.

Maguire's goal and Onana's penalty save were both crucial moments in the game, but it was the overall performance of the team that was most impressive. United showed great resilience and determination to overcome a difficult start to the game and secure a vital victory.

This performance has led some to draw parallels with the notion that 'a discarded stone can ultimately become a cornerstone', highlighting the resilience and determination exhibited by the team. Maguire and Onana have both been criticized in the past, but they were both heroes for United on Tuesday night.

It is still early days in Erik ten Hag's reign at Old Trafford, but this win is a sign that the team is moving in the right direction. If they can continue to show the same resilience and determination, then they will be a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League this season.