EPL Index
·19 octobre 2024
EPL Index
·19 octobre 2024
Manchester United delivered a crucial comeback victory over Brentford at Old Trafford, securing a 2-1 win and boosting their Premier League campaign. Despite trailing 1-0 at half-time, United’s second-half resurgence, led by Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund, was enough to claim all three points.
The Red Devils initially struggled against a resilient Brentford side, but Erik ten Hag’s tactical adjustments after the break spurred a much-needed turnaround. The win pushes United up the table as they seek to regain form in the league.
United found themselves under pressure early on, with Brentford nearly making their typical fast start. Kevin Schade almost gave the visitors an early lead, but his outstretched leg could not connect with a teasing cross. Brentford’s Mikkel Damsgaard also had a chance with a volley from the edge of the box, as the Bees tried to capitalise on their early possession.
In contrast, United struggled to create clear-cut chances in the opening stages. Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken nearly gifted United a goal when he fumbled a tame header, but managed to recover just in time. A moment of relief for the visitors, but a reminder of the dangers they faced.
Photo: IMAGO
Despite growing into the game, United fell behind just before half-time. Ethan Pinnock headed home from a corner in added time, exploiting a momentary lapse in United’s defence as Matthijs de Ligt left the field to tend to a head injury.
Erik ten Hag’s half-time adjustments breathed new life into United’s attack. Just 90 seconds after the restart, Marcus Rashford delivered an excellent cross, finding Alejandro Garnacho at the back post. The Argentine calmly rifled the ball into the net, levelling the match and energising the home crowd.
United continued to press forward, with Flekken forced into saves from Garnacho and Casemiro. However, Brentford’s resistance was broken again when Rasmus Hojlund chipped the ball delicately over the Brentford keeper, putting United 2-1 ahead after an hour.
Diogo Dalot had a chance to extend the lead further but was denied by Flekken. Nevertheless, United remained in control for the rest of the game, keeping Brentford at bay as they secured a much-needed win.
This victory was a testament to Erik ten Hag’s tactical acumen. After a lacklustre first half, his decision to change United’s approach allowed them to dominate after the break. Brentford’s Thomas Frank, on the other hand, was unable to counter United’s second-half intensity and will rue his side’s inability to hold onto their lead.
Photo: IMAGO
Ten Hag’s changes saw United adopt a more aggressive approach in the second half, with Garnacho, Rashford, and Hojlund leading the charge. The result leaves Brentford still searching for consistency, as they remain in the lower half of the Premier League table.
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