Casemiro scores United’s first goal against Aston Villa (Image: Getty)
Manchester United scored a crucial win against Aston Villa, boosting their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League. The host team did not have everything their way and Casemiro and several other players were forced to lead by example and show some fight. The first half was relatively quiet, with Diogo Dalot missing their best chance in the opening 45 minutes from close range.
The deadlock was finally broken after the interval when Casemiro flicked a header into the bottom corner of the goal. United’s lead lasted just 11 minutes before Ross Barkley put Villa back on level terms with a powerful, low shot into the net. The game ultimately went United’s way, with both teams pushing for a winner, with Matheus Cunha scoring a fine finish to put the Red Devils back in the lead. Things got even better when substitute Benjamin Sesco scored another goal just 10 minutes into the game.
Express Sport rates and plans United’s players following today’s important win…
Manchester United player evaluation vs Aston Villa
Senne Ramens – 6
Just before Barkley found the bottom corner, he made a vital stop to deny Amadou Onana, but there was nothing he could do about it.
He wasted a golden opportunity to score from close range, lost his composure and shot wide. There wasn’t much else worth mentioning. I can’t say it’s great.
It was a good match. He produced a great sliding tackle towards the end of the first half to deny Ollie Watkins’ shot on goal.
He was confident with the ball, used his passing skills to start attacking from the back, and his defense was also decent.
He made some clever runs and caused Villa problems on the left. He also fulfilled his defensive duties.
He was heavily involved in all areas of the pitch, often playing as United’s most forward midfielder. He scored a stunning header to break the deadlock. He set an example with Bruno Fernandes.
He helped the team move forward with his direct ball carry and smart passes through the middle. Decent display.
Cunha put the Red Devils ahead before Sesco’s insurance goal. (Image: Getty)
Casemiro headed home after a corner kick, and Cunha scored United’s second goal with a world-class through ball and added two assists. Stepped up when needed to run the show in the second half.
They were forced into a fine save from Emi Martinez’s guided header into the bottom corner, but other than that they were quieter than usual.
He caused trouble by running wide and putting in dangerous crosses. He produced a moment of real quality to score the winning goal, which is exactly why United signed him.
We got off to a slow start, but managed to improve in the second half. But it wasn’t vintage Mbeumo and some of his teammates deservedly got more credit.
substitute
Benjamin Sesco – 8
Inevitably, he found the back of the net just five minutes after taking a sweet shot on the turn. A very important goal that determined the outcome.
He entered the game just before the end, when the game had already ended. The legs took a few minutes.
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