Man United difficulties at Old Trafford persisted with a 2-0 Premier League loss to Crystal Palace, their seventh home league defeat of the campaign. United, aiming for a fourth straight victory across all competitions, were outplayed for significant portions of the match, with Palace controlling the first half and generating numerous opportunities. Jean-Philippe Mateta ultimately opened the scoring in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a rebound off the crossbar, and later secured the win with a second goal. Despite ramping up the pressure after halftime, United lacked imagination and couldn’t manage a response, while Lisandro Martínez’s injury compounded their problems. The outcome lifted Palace above United in the standings to 12th place, leaving manager Ruben Amorim still seeking consecutive league wins since his appointment.
First-Half Summary: Man United 0-0 Crystal Palace
The opening half at Old Trafford concluded with no goals as both Man United and Crystal Palace generated opportunities but were unable to capitalize. United had early chances via Alejandro Garnacho, Diogo Dalot, and Kobbie Mainoo, while Palace posed a threat with efforts from Daniel Muñoz, Tyrick Mitchell, and Jean-Philippe Mateta. The match witnessed numerous set pieces, with United securing several corners and free kicks but struggling to penetrate Palace’s defense. Conversely, Palace appeared menacing on the counterattack, with Mateta nearly scoring after a through ball from Jefferson Lerma. The half also included several stoppages due to fouls and an injury to Daniel Muñoz. In spite of the offensive efforts from both teams, the first 45 minutes concluded without a goal.
Second-Half Summary: Man United 0-2 Crystal Palace
At Old Trafford, Crystal Palace delivered a second-half shocker, defeating Manc United 2-0. The pivotal moment arrived in the 64th minute, as Jean-Philippe Mateta capitalized on a rebound from a Maxence Lacroix header that had bounced off the crossbar. United, in turn, ramped up their offensive efforts, with Bruno Fernandes, Manuel Ugarte, and Amad Diallo all requiring saves from Dean Henderson, yet they couldn’t pierce Palace’s defense with any incisiveness. Further complicating United’s situation, Lisandro Martínez sustained an injury and was subsequently replaced. Deep into stoppage time, Palace solidified their victory with a precise counterattack, Mateta finishing in the 89th minute following a rapid break spearheaded by Daniel Muñoz. Despite eleventh-hour efforts from Rasmus Højlund and Garnacho, United couldn’t level the score, marking their seventh league loss at home this season.
