Manchester United’s wait for consecutive Premier League wins ended in stunning fashion as they won 2-1 at Liverpool to kick off club action after the international break.
It was a dream start for Man Utd as Bryan Mbeumo put them ahead after just 62 seconds, beating the goalkeeper on the near post with a fine finish.
There was the expected fightback from Liverpool, as United had to ride the storm, but once they did, they again looked more likely to score a second than Liverpool equalising.
Neither happened, however, as Ruben Amorim’s men secured their lead going into half-time.
However, United retreated into their shell too much in the second half, and their rearguard action collapsed in the 77th minute with an equaliser via Gakpo.
United, however, weren’t going down this time, with Harry Maguire restoring United’s lead with a brilliant header. That would remain the case as United finally won consecutive games under Amorim.
Man Utd player ratings vs Liverpool
Senne Lammens – 8
He didn’t have a lot to do as he saw two go past him to hit the post, but he did the basics well and radiated calm in a bowl of chaos at Anfield.
Luke Shaw – 7
Needed a good performance at Anfield after past horrors, and he delivered, albeit with a shaky moment or two.
Harry Maguire – 8.5
Kick-started the move for the opener with a strong header, and scored the winner in remarkable circumstances.
Matthijs de Ligt – 9
Played like a man possessed as he cleared and headed everything in sight, dominating second balls and winning his duels like a warrior who just wouldn’t be beaten on the day. Amorim’s plan for him to sweep up second balls was crucial to United’s direct game.
Diogo Dalot – 6
Weakest in the defensive five as he killed attacks with sloppy touches and was caught ball-watching on multiple occasions.
Amad – 8
He needed to dominate his matchup against Kerkez, and he did so from the very first minute. Combined with Mbeumo to devastating effect. Hooked after getting booked.
Casemiro – 7
A calm first half was right up his alley before the intensity dialled up in the second, resulting in his customary lunge and a booking. Came off immediately after.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Sloppy throughout the game, but made two passes which made all the difference. One to Amad for the opener, and the cross for Maguire to restore the lead. Big-game impact player.
Bryan Mbeumo – 9
Ensured there were no “what if” xG conversations as he finished his first chance with aplomb to give United something to hold onto. Stretched Liverpool with his running.
Mason Mount – 7
Flew under the radar but worked hard off the ball to close passing lanes and force some saves with sighters from range.
Matheus Cunha – 8
Ran at Liverpool in a striker role that was thankless. He performed it as well he could have been expected to, especially late on when he drove United forward and won fouls.
Substitutes
Manuel Ugarte – 6
Kept the play ticking simply after being rattled for a bit by the pace of the game when he came on.
Patrick Dorgu – 7
Was tasked with bringing energy to the wing-back spot. Was smart late on to help United see through the game.
Benjamin Sesko – 7
Tried hard but not on the same wavelength as his teammates. Held the ball up in thankless circumstances.
Kobbie Mainoo – 6
Came on late when things got frantic and couldn’t get into it.
Leny Yoro – 7
Headed away some dangerous crosses in injury time.
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