Manchester United recorded a sensational comeback victory against Southampton in their Premier League fixture on Sunday. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men were seeking their eighth consecutive league away win in a visit to the south coast. After falling behind from goals by Bednarek and Ward-Prowse, Fernandes and Cavani fired in the goals to give United the win.
Starting XI
Manchester United went for a diamond with Bruno, Matic, Fred, and van de Beek in the middle of the park. Harry Maguire partnered Lindelof at center back with Telles and Wan Bissaka on either side. Up ahead were Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford. David de Gea continued being the favored choice at goalkeeper, making his 500th senior start of his career.
First Half
Manchester United started the game with incredible intent and speed. Although Southampton began to try and press United, the Red Devils responded swiftly via Alex Telles and Rashford. The duo combined excellently and gave United a few early sights. Matic played a sensational pass but Greenwood was only able to hit the side netting. Bruno Fernades fired a shot from distance to force a save from the Southampton goalkeeper. United were the earlier side on every ball and were giving Southampton no time to settle. However, the game flipped on its head when Ward Prowse’s corner found Bednarek who skimmed the ball into the goal to put Southampton ahead.
After falling behind against the run of play, United’s frustration grew as their passing and movement quality began to tumble. Rashford had some poor touches and Mason could not get involved in the game as United searched for an equalizer. Southampton came close to increasing the lead as United’s defense was barely hanging on. An astounding double save from the Southampton goalkeeper frustrated United’s forwards even more. Unfortunately, things went from bad to worse as Ward Prowse’s freekick on the edge of the box curled into the near post giving De Gea no chance. Furthermore, David De Gea hit his knee on the post and was injured while trying to save the freekick. United tried to reduce the deficit with some quick passing and pressure. However, the Red Devils went into the break with a giant task at hand.
Second Half
Manchester United rolled the dice at half time, bringing on Edinson Cavani in place of Mason Greenwood. David De Gea was unable to continue and was replaced by Dean Henderson in goal. Marcus Rashford had a good chance early in the second half but Southampton’s goalkeeper was equal to the task. It was in the 59th minute when Wan Bissaka played a pass down the right to Cavani who crossed to the center of the box finding Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder slotted the ball into the net giving United some hope in the game. Bruno’s goal gave United a lot of confidence and gave Southampton a lot of anxiety as the Red Devils started finding some great passes in the opposing half. Donny van de Beek connected the holding midfielders with the forwards brilliantly as the Dutchman put in yet another shift.
Manchester United level the score within 13 minutes through super sub Edinson Cavani. An Alex Telles corner found its way to Bruno Fernades. The Portuguese man fired a darting pass towards the 6-yard box where Edinson Cavani’s diving header guided the ball past Southampton’s goalkeeper. Manchester United looked like they could go on and win this game as their confidence surged rapidly.
Southampton looked dangerous as Che Adams’ effort whistled past the post as the game looked set for a frantic and nervy finish. In injury time, Edinson Cavani gave Manchester United fans the cheer and joy they so desperately needed. Bruno Fernades played a short pass to Marcus Rashford, who crossed the ball to the near post and Edinson Cavani gleefully headed the ball past McCarthy to give United the win in the 92nd minute. With the comeback complete, United comfortably kept the Saints out for the last 2 minutes as Ole’s men recorded another good win on the road. Next up, a visit from the Parisians at Old Trafford as United hope to seal qualification to the next round of the Champions League.
What Worked
- Fred, Matic, and van de Beek had good games. Their passing and movement were good and they gave our forwards a lot of good chances.
- Despite having a mostly poor game, Bruno Fernandes showed up and performed when he was really needed.
- Wan Bissaka had his hands full in defense but he and Telles hustled and had impressive displays in the attack.
Things to Improve
- Ole really needs to consider starting Edinson Cavani. The veteran really put on a masterclass today and showed United what a striker can really do.
- Rashford and Mason had poor games. Both of them finished poorly and have struggled to score.
- Bruno had a rough game and at times seemed a bit selfish. Very confusing considering he gives away his penalties when he is on a hattrick.
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