Manchester United snapped a five-game winless run with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Saturday, thanks to second-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund. The win lifts United to 10th in the Premier League standings and relieves some pressure on manager Erik ten Hag.
Brentford took the lead just before halftime through Ethan Pinnock’s header after a controversial decision by the referee, who sent United’s Matthijs de Ligt off the pitch to treat a head injury. With United down to 10 men, Pinnock capitalized on a corner to put the visitors ahead, leaving the Red Devils frustrated at the break.
Ten Hag’s halftime team talk seemed to spark a different United side in the second half. Garnacho quickly equalized in the 47th minute, latching onto a cross from Marcus Rashford and firing into the far corner from close range. Brentford struggled to regain control as United continued to press forward.
Rasmus Højlund completed the turnaround in the 62nd minute with a clever chip over Brentford’s goalkeeper Mark Flekken, after being set up by a brilliant backheel from Bruno Fernandes. The goal marked Højlund’s first league goal of the season.
Despite some good chances for Brentford in the first half, including a dangerous shot from Christian Nørgaard that forced a diving save from United’s André Onana, the visitors were largely passive after the break. United dominated the second half, creating multiple chances and ending the match with 11 shots on target compared to Brentford’s two.
The victory comes as a relief for Ten Hag, who has faced mounting pressure after United’s poor start to the season. The Red Devils now shift focus to their upcoming Europa League match against Fenerbahce, while Brentford will prepare to host newly promoted Ipswich Town.
Key Player: Alejandro Garnacho
Garnacho was a standout performer, delivering a lively and threatening display throughout the match. His goal and constant pressure down the wing helped shift the momentum in United’s favor.
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