Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Report
Scorers: Mateta 64’, 89’
Crystal Palace continued their impressive run of form with a clinical 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, securing their fourth win in five games across all competitions.
A second-half brace from Jean-Philippe Mateta ensured the Eagles extended their unbeaten head-to-head record against United to four matches (W3, D1), leapfrogging the Red Devils in the Premier League table.
United Start Brightly but Fail to Capitalise
Manchester United began the match with urgency, looking to build on their recent form under Rúben Amorim. Alejandro Garnacho was a constant threat from the left flank, cutting inside dangerously before seeing his effort superbly blocked by Chris Richards.
The hosts’ best chance of the first half came through Kobbie Mainoo, whose well-struck effort cannoned off the left post following a fluid team move.
Despite their promising start, United’s familiar struggles in front of goal were evident once again, as they failed to convert their early dominance into a breakthrough.
Palace Grow Into the Game and Take Control
Crystal Palace gradually gained a foothold, unsettling United’s defence with their pace and pressing. Tyrick Mitchell delivered a dangerous cross that was headed wide by Daniel Muñoz, before Maxence Lacroix forced a save from André Onana with a powerful strike.
Mitchell then came close to capitalising on a defensive lapse from Lenny Yoro, but his shot was deflected wide. Palace ended the first half firmly on top, with Mateta bulldozing his way past Harry Maguire before seeing his chipped effort tipped wide by Onana.
Mateta Breaks the Deadlock in the Second Half
United initially responded well after the restart, appearing more organised in their counter-attacking play. A swift break saw Amad Diallo tee up Bruno Fernandes, but the Portuguese midfielder’s shot was well saved by former United goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
However, as the half wore on, Palace once again asserted their dominance, with Muñoz and Mateta causing chaos in United’s defensive third.
Mateta, who has been Palace’s talisman under Oliver Glasner, continued his fine form by scoring the opener. A header from Lacroix rattled the crossbar, and Mateta reacted quickest to poke home, giving Palace a deserved lead.
Mateta Completes His Brace as United Collapse
In a desperate attempt to rescue the match, Amorim introduced Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. However, United’s woes deepened when Lisandro Martínez was stretchered off, dealing a further blow to their already fragile defensive structure.
Moments later, Palace sealed the victory in ruthless fashion. Muñoz raced through United’s defence before squaring the ball for Mateta, who slotted home his second goal of the afternoon with ease.
The Frenchman’s brace took his tally to 22 goals in 37 appearances since Glasner’s arrival, underlining his importance to Palace’s resurgence.
What the Result Means for Both Sides
This latest defeat denies Amorim his first set of back-to-back league victories since taking charge at Manchester United.
The Red Devils remain plagued by inconsistency and a lack of cutting edge in front of goal, with their top-four hopes continuing to fade.
Meanwhile, Palace’s resurgence under Glasner gathers momentum. Their latest victory lifts them above United into 12th place, as they continue to look more assured under their new boss.
Final Thoughts
Manchester United’s familiar issues in attack and defensive frailties were once again exposed, as Crystal Palace produced a tactically disciplined and ruthless display. With United struggling to build consistency, the pressure will only mount on Amorim to turn things around.
For Palace, this victory marks another significant step in their revival, with Mateta proving to be an indispensable asset. As their form continues to improve, the Eagles could yet push for a top-half finish under Glasner’s guidance.
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Man Utd v Crystal Palace, 2024/25 | Premier League