Manchester United secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, in a Premier League match that saw both Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount find the net. The win moves Manchester United up to sixth in the Premier League table.
Crystal Palace took the lead in the first half through a Jean-Philippe Mateta penalty. Leny Yoro clumsily brought down Mateta in the box, leading to the penalty. Mateta initially scored, but VAR ordered a retake due to a double touch. Mateta held his nerve and converted the second attempt, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way. Crystal Palace's manager, Oliver Glasner, lamented that the team "weren't sharp enough" and conceded two goals from set plays. He also expressed concern about Sarr's ankle injury, potentially ruling him out for several weeks.
Manchester United displayed renewed vigor after the halftime break. Joshua Zirkzee equalized in the 54th minute, scoring his first Premier League goal in 364 days. Bruno Fernandes provided a lofted free-kick that Zirkzee controlled before firing a half-volley past Dean Henderson. Mason Mount then completed the turnaround in the 63rd minute, scoring his first goal for Manchester United. Fernandes laid off a free kick to Mount, who fired home through a crowd.
Speaking after the game, Zirkzee acknowledged the pressure of playing for a big club and expressed gratitude for the support he's received from his teammates and coaches. Mount emphasized the importance of bouncing back after a difficult result in the previous game and praised the team's character. Manchester United's manager, Ruben Amorim, highlighted the importance of set pieces in the Premier League and praised his team's increased intensity in the second half. He also noted that the Crystal Palace players appeared more tired in the second half.
Crystal Palace had been on a strong run at home prior to this match, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 Premier League games at Selhurst Park. However, they struggled to maintain their intensity in the second half, possibly due to their recent Conference League match against Strasbourg. According to reports, Crystal Palace was missing key investment in the summer transfer window.
Manchester United, on the other hand, demonstrated resilience and tactical adjustments in the second half to secure a vital win. This victory marks a significant step forward as they aim to climb higher in the Premier League standings.
