In a continuation of their challenging start to the season, Manchester United faced a harsh blow at the hands of a sharp Newcastle United, as the Magpies secured a dominant victory at Old Trafford.
The early stages of the match didn’t offer much excitement for either side, but Manchester United appeared to have slightly improved their ball possession compared to their recent performances. However, it would be misleading to suggest that the Mancunian club had true control of the game. Brazilian captain Casemiro managed a decent shot from just outside the area, but that was one of the few highlights for the Red Devils in the first half.
Erik ten Hag’s team displayed determination, but this led to a series of clumsy tackles, resulting in both central midfielders, Hannibal Mejbri and Casemiro, receiving yellow cards. Hannibal’s rashness nearly got him into more trouble just 18 minutes into the game. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.
Unfortunately for United, they paid the price for Hannibal’s foul trouble. In the 26th minute, Newcastle capitalized on a careless pass from Garnacho, and Tino Livramento, the Magpies’ full-back, made the most of it. Livramento charged past Mejbri, who couldn’t risk another foul due to his earlier booking, and provided a well-placed through ball to Miguel Almiron, who calmly finished past Andre Onana.
Hopes of a Manchester United comeback were swiftly dashed. After a speculative shot from United’s full-back Sergio Reguilon, Newcastle found themselves 2-0 ahead. United was caught off guard at a free kick, and Lewis Hall expertly volleyed the ball past the United goalkeeper following a Harry Maguire headed clearance.
The remainder of the first half was uneventful for Manchester United, and the Old Trafford crowd was left disappointed. At halftime, the atmosphere was somber.
Eager to turn the tide, Ten Hag made a double change at halftime, introducing Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Sofyan Amrabat. This resulted in a timid fightback, with Antony Martial coming close after a promising move by Wan-Bissaka. However, as has been a recurring theme for Manchester United this season, they were exposed on the counter.
Sofyan Amrabat’s tough start continued as he lost the ball in a dangerous area, allowing Joe Willock to break forward and score again. It was 3-0, sealing the game for Newcastle.
Despite some effort from Manchester United, the response could be described as all “huff and no puff.” Ten Hag made further substitutions, bringing on Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, and Bruno Fernandes, but the situation remained largely unchanged. Newcastle looked comfortable and more likely to score, as highlighted by Sean Longstaff’s shot that narrowly missed the target in the 75th minute.
The game ended on a disappointing note for Manchester United, with boos and chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning” echoing around Old Trafford. Unfortunately, it was another challenging night for the 2023/24 version of Ten Hag’s side, and their defense of the Carabao Cup came to an abrupt end. Fans began leaving with ten minutes to play, lacking belief in a comeback that never seemed within reach. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.
