Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt Report

Scorers: Garnacho 1’, Højlund 45’, 50’; Evjen 19’, Zinckernagel 23’

Rúben Amorim celebrated his first win as Manchester United head coach in dramatic fashion, as his side came from behind to edge Bodø/Glimt 3-2 at Old Trafford.

This victory extended United’s unbeaten home streak to six matches across all competitions, keeping their UEFA Europa League qualification hopes alive.

First Half: Early Joy, Defensive Lapses

United burst out of the blocks with a goal inside 49 seconds. Alejandro Garnacho tapped into an empty net after Rasmus Højlund forced Bodø goalkeeper Nikita Haikin into a critical error inside his box.

However, the Red Devils failed to capitalize on their early dominance, squandering several chances to extend the lead.

Bodø punished United’s defensive vulnerabilities with two quick-fire goals. Håkon Evjen found space between the lines to curl a stunning effort into the top corner, leveling the scores.

Just moments later, Philip Zinckernagel left Tyrell Malacia in his wake, racing onto a long ball before coolly finishing under André Onana. The away fans erupted, while Amorim looked frustrated with his side’s defensive frailties.

United needed a response, and Højlund provided it with a moment of brilliance just before HT. Noussair Mazraoui’s quick feet created space for a cross, which Højlund controlled expertly before firing into the bottom corner to bring the game level at 2-2.

Second Half: Højlund at the Double

The hosts carried momentum into the second half and almost regained the lead through Mason Mount, who struck the upright with a curling effort. Moments later, United were back in front.

A slick passing move involving Mount and Manuel Ugarte set up Højlund for his second of the night, as the Danish forward slotted into the far corner with composure.

United’s second-half display was markedly improved, with Amorim’s halftime adjustments evident in their more organized approach.

Garnacho had multiple opportunities to extend the lead but was wasteful in front of goal, while Marcus Rashford also missed a clear-cut chance from inside the box.

Despite defensive substitutions late on, United’s backline remained shaky. Bodø pressed for an equalizer, but André Onana preserved the lead with a crucial stoppage-time save from a free-kick, ensuring United claimed a vital three points.

Group Standings and Implications

The victory moves United within a point of the automatic qualification spots in their UEL group, while Bodø’s second successive defeat drops them further behind in the standings. With two matches remaining, Amorim will look to build on this result and secure a top-two finish.

For Bodø, their attention will turn to domestic action as they seek to bounce back in a crucial league encounter over the weekend. Despite the loss, their spirited display against the English giants proves they are no pushovers.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Man Utd vs Bodø/Glimt | UEFA Europa League 2024/25