AFCON 2025
Manchester United suffered a crushing 2-0 defeat against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, with both goals scored by Jean-Philippe Mateta in the second half.
The Red Devils began the match with a significant share of possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to deploy midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine left the team without a traditional focal point in attack.
The deadlock was broken in the 64th minute when Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta capitalized on a rebound after Maxence Lacroix’s header struck the crossbar, slotting the ball past goalkeeper André Onana.
Manchester United’s attempts to equalize were thwarted by Palace’s organized defense and goalkeeper Sam Johnstone’s crucial saves. In the 89th minute, Mateta secured his brace, finishing from close range to seal the victory for the visitors.
Adding to United’s woes, defender Lisandro Martínez suffered a knee injury following a challenge with Ismaïla Sarr. Martínez was stretchered off in tears, leading to a six-minute stoppage in play.
This defeat leaves Manchester United in 13th place in the Premier League standings, intensifying pressure on Amorim to address the team’s inconsistencies. Crystal Palace’s victory propels them to 12th, just above United in the table.
