Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed frustration after a goalless draw at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace. Coming off a massive 7-0 EFL Cup victory against Barnsley, United seemed poised for another strong showing but struggled to find the back of the net.
Garnacho’s Early Threat
Alejandro Garnacho, back in the starting XI, replaced Marcus Rashford and was quick to create danger. His early effort was well saved by Palace’s goalkeeper Dean Henderson. United continued to apply pressure throughout the first half, with Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez denied by Henderson’s reflexes.
Frustration for Bruno Fernandes
The rebound from fell to Bruno Fernandes, who orchestrated most of United’s play. However, his shot clipped the top of the bar, leaving United frustrated. Fernandes would later rue several missed chances, particularly in the first half when United seemed to dominate possession.
Ten Hag
Reacting to the first half, Erik Ten Hag confidently stated,” They’re alive. Ten Hag lamented the team’s lack of clinical finishing in the box, which left them without the goals they deserved.
Second-Half Struggles for United
Crystal Palace grew into the game in the second half with Eberechi Eze Andre Onana. United still created chances, with Fernandes curling wide and Garnacho forcing another save from Opportunities.
Eze came closest for Palace but couldn’t find the net. His miss from 12 yards, when unmarked, will haunt him. Palace had a chance to steal all three points, but luck was on their side.
VAR Controversy Involving Martinez
A late challenge by Lisandro Martinez, which saw him lunging with both feet, went under VAR review. Fortunately for United, no contact was made with Palace’s Saichichi Kamada, and Martinez avoided a sending-off of United’s possession on Dominance.
Despite the missed chances, United ended the game with 66.8% possession—their highest in an away game since April 2023. Yet, as Ten Hag pointed out, possession alone does not equal points. Finishing issues were apparent, especially with their xG (expected goals) being the second-highest in the league, yet they only managed to score five goals from their first five games.
Positives for United Hojlund’s Return
One bright spot for Manchester United was the return of Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund from injury. He came off the bench late in the game and is expected to add firepower to United’s defence’s attack. Paired with the Netherlands forward, Joshua ZiUnited’sd’s options up front are growing.
Crystal Palace Resilient Despite Lack of Cutting-Edge
Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, showed resilience throughout the game. Despite a slow start and some defensive struggles in the first half, they grew into tconHenderson’srson’sn’s saves were crucial, and Palace began to create more opportunities as the game progressed.
Palace will regret not taking their chance on two missed opportunities, one in each half, which should have produced at least one goal. Sarr also missed a crucial opportunity, failing to convert after a rebound from Onana’s parry. Henderson was the hero for Palace, keeping them alive with some stunning saves.
Palace Still Searching for First Win
With three draws in a row and progression in the EFL Cup, Palace are still searching for their first league win. However, they adjust to life without key players like Michael Olise and Joachim Andersen, who moved to Bayern Munich and Fulham.
Glasner’s Reaction
After the match, Oliver Glasner was candid about the team’s performance. “We played without courage in the first half,” he admitted. But he was encouraged by their second-half improvement, saying they could have won the game with a bit more luck.
This draw highlighted Manchester United’s old weaknesses. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, they failed to capitalize in front of goal. Ten Hag will undoubtedly reflect on these missed opportunities while returning to Manchester. What’s Next for United?
With a long season ahead, Manchester United needs consistency in front of goal. While their overall play has improved, their inability to finish games could become a recurring issue if not addressed. Their next fixtures will be crucial as they aim to climb the Premier League table—Progress Continues.
Crystal Palace, though still winless, is showing signs of improvement. Their defence, led by Henderson, has been solid, but they will need more cutting-edge attacks to turn into wins. Oliver Glasner will be encouraged by the team’s fighting spirit, but the need for the team is urgent.
