Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Palace triumph Man United at Old Trafford

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Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review

Crystal Palace secured their fourth victory in five matches across all competitions with a 2-0 win against Manchester United, thanks to a second-half goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta. This result extended their unbeaten streak against United to four games (three wins and one draw). United started strong and seemed eager to score early, but their inability to finish chances proved to be a recurring issue this season. The home team continued to create opportunities with some impressive ball movement, and a quick team play nearly resulted in a goal, but Kobbie Mainoo’s shot hit the left post.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Kobbie Mainoo in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Kobbie Mainoo in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.

Palace began to assert themselves in the match, putting the home team under pressure. In their first significant chance, Tyrick Mitchell’s cross was headed wide by Daniel Muñoz, and Maxence Lacroix had a shot that was saved by André Onana. Mitchell nearly scored the opening goal after capitalizing on a mistake by Lenny Yoro, but his shot was deflected past the post.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Manuel Ugarte and Tyrick Mitchell in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Manuel Ugarte and Tyrick Mitchell in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.

Palace was clearly in control as they approached halftime, with Mateta once again breaking through the United defense, this time getting past Harry Maguire, but his chip was tipped wide by Onana. After the break, United came out looking stronger, employing a strategy of absorbing pressure and counterattacking, which seemed effective against Palace. A quick move upfield saw Amad Diallo break away and pass the ball back to Bruno Fernandes, but the United captain’s shot was well saved by Dean Henderson.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Alejandro Garnacho and Dean Henderson in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Alejandro Garnacho and Dean Henderson in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.

As the half, Palace became more involved in the match, with Muñoz and Mateta creating significant challenges for the home team’s defense. Mateta, who has been a key player for the Eagles since Glasner’s appointment in February 2024, scored his 22nd goal in 37 matches by tapping in after Lacroix’s header hit the crossbar. In an effort to change the game’s outcome, Amorim brought on Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, but the situation worsened when Lisandro Martínez had to be carried off on a stretcher.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Jean-Philippe Mateta celebrates with his teammates after scoring during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Jean-Philippe Mateta celebrates with his teammates after scoring during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.

Mateta then added another goal with an easy finish after Muñoz set him up perfectly. Consequently, the Portuguese coach missed out on achieving his first consecutive league wins since taking over the challenging Manchester role. Palace’s victory moved them ahead of United in the league standings, placing them in 12th position.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Ruben Amorim looks dejected after the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Review: Ruben Amorim looks dejected after the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on February 2, 2025.

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