A magical assist: Watch Juan Mata set up Manchester United's winner with a gorgeous flick

A thing of beauty is a joy forever, especially if it’s a magical piece of football skill that is later turned into a vine.

Manchester United defeated Wolfsburg 2-1 at Old Trafford on Matchday 2 of UEFA Champions League and the night belonged to the little magician from Spain, Juan Mata.

Mata scored one goal and made another as Manchester United came from behind to beat Wolfsburg 2-1 on Wednesday and kick their Champions League campaign into gear.

Beaten 2-1 at PSV Eindhoven in their opening game, Louis van Gaal’s side fell behind to a fourth-minute Daniel Caligiuri goal at Old Trafford before Mata rode to the home team’s rescue.

The highlight of his performance on the night was, undoubtedly, the assist for Chris Smalling’s winning goal.

Here’s a look at his night in numbers.

Juan Mata's game by numbers vs. Wolfsburg:

98% pass accuracy
5 chances created
3 shots
1 goal
1 magical assist pic.twitter.com/Mfa4KZVBBQ

— Squawka (@Squawka) September 30, 2015

Mata proved a constant source of invention, but manager Louis Van Gaal was reluctant to join in with praise of the Spaniard’s display.

“I don’t speak about individual performances, but I have seen Mata playing better than today,” he said.

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With inputs from AFP