Manchester United Bounce Back with Convincing 3-0 Win over Southampton
Manchester United secured their second win of the Premier League season with a 3-0 triumph at Southampton. The Red Devils rode an early storm, with Andre Onana’s penalty save in the 34th minute proving to be the turning point. Matthijs de Ligt opened the scoring two minutes later, followed by Marcus Rashford’s first goal of the campaign in the 41st minute. Alejandro Garnacho added a late goal to complete a good afternoon’s work for United.
The match was highlighted by outstanding individual displays from several key players, including the Ajax reunion of Matthijs de Ligt and Andre Onana.
De Ligt and Onana: The former Ajax duo proved to be a formidable force for United. De Ligt’s commanding presence at the back was instrumental in shutting down Southampton’s attacking threats. Meanwhile, Onana’s crucial penalty save in the first half turned the tide of the match in United’s Favor.
Rashford’s Resurgence: Marcus Rashford finally ended his goal drought, netting a fantastic strike that extended United’s lead. His performance was a much-needed boost for the team and a sign of things to come.
Amad Diallo’s Rising Star: Amad Diallo once again showcased his immense talent, impressing with his dribbling, passing, and overall attacking play. The young winger is quickly becoming a key player for United and a fan favourite.
Southampton’s Defensive Woes: Southampton’s defensive frailties were exposed by United’s attacking prowess. Errors from the Saints’ backline allowed United to capitalize and secure a comfortable victory.
Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defence
- Andre Onana (8/10): The goalkeeper was instrumental in United’s win, saving Cameron Archer’s penalty and follow-up header. He dealt well with Southampton’s aerial threat and made several crucial saves throughout the match.
- Noussair Mazraoui (7/10): The right-back had a solid performance, combining well with Amad to form a deadly right flank that Southampton found hard to contain.
- Matthijs de Ligt (8/10): The centre-back was a rock at the back, making several crucial interceptions and tackles. He grabbed United’s opener and responded well after a tumultuous international break with the Netherlands.
- Lisandro Martinez (7/10): The Argentine centre-back had a much better performance, looking more like himself. His line-breaking passes helped United beat the Southampton blocks and get higher up the pitch.
- Diogo Dalot (6/10): The left-back was the weak link in defence, struggling against Tyler Dibling in the first half. His reckless tackle on Dibling saw the Saints awarded a penalty, but Onana spared him some blushes. He also gave Garnacho the assist that led to a late goal
Midfield
- Christian Eriksen (6/10): The midfielder had an OK display, putting in some good corners and showing quick thinking that led to the first goal.
- Kobbie Mainoo (5/10): The midfielder had a difficult first 45 minutes, giving the ball away a few times and not offering the control he usually does.
- Bruno Fernandes (7/10): The midfielder grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck, setting up De Ligt’s goal and bossing the second half.
Attack
- Amad Diallo (8/10): The winger was undoubtedly United’s main source of attacking threat, with things happening whenever he got the ball. He registered an assist for Rashford’s strike that sealed the victory.
- Marcus Rashford (7/10): The striker had a quiet start but enjoyed some good moments late on in the first half, capped by a sensational goal to double United’s lead.
- Joshua Zirkzee (7/10): The striker had fantastic link-up play, making the attack gel. He had a good chance to score towards the end but failed to convert.
Substitutes
- Alejandro Garnacho (8/10): The winger did well during his time on the pitch, scoring another goal off the bench.
- Harry Maguire (6/10): The centre-back helped United get over the line, winning his headers and receiving a harsh yellow for his troubles.
- Manuel Ugarte (7/10): The midfielder gave fans a good glimpse of what to expect going forward, with good passing and assured play.
- Jonny Evans (6/10): The centre-back did his job, helping to secure the win.
- Casemiro (6/10): The midfielder was brought on late and played his part in Garnacho’s goal.
Manager
- Erik ten Hag (7/10): The manager made the right number of changes and overlooked an outright defensive midfielder, which did not cost United. His patience with Rashford paid off, as did Amad’s recall.
What are your thoughts on the match, who is your Man of the Match? (Below is the comment Section, we would like to know your view).