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Manchester United kicked off their Premier League season with an impressive 3-0 victory over Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium. This opening match carried high expectations, as United aimed to maintain their strong record against newly promoted teams. Having lost only once in their last 30 meetings with such opponents, United were also unbeaten in their previous 12 trips to Southampton’s home ground. The win set a positive tone for the rest of the season, as the Red Devils sent a strong message to their league rivals.
A key aspect of the match was manager Erik ten Hag’s tactical decisions, including leaving out veteran midfielder Casemiro after his struggles in a previous game against Liverpool. Christian Eriksen took his place, with hopes that the Danish playmaker would bring more fluidity to the midfield. New signing Manuel Ugarte, not fully fit, only made a brief late appearance.
United dominated the early stages, with Joshua Zirkzee nearly opening the scoring within 15 minutes. Although his shot was comfortably saved by Southampton’s goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, United’s attacking threat was evident as they kept pressing for a goal.
There was a tense moment when Diogo Dalot conceded a penalty after a challenge on Southampton’s rising talent, Tyler Dibbling. However, United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana came to the rescue. Using psychological tactics, Onana delayed the penalty for 51 seconds before making a crucial save from Cameron Archer’s spot-kick, allowing United to stay in control.
Following Onana’s heroics, United quickly seized the momentum. Bruno Fernandes delivered a perfect cross to Matthijs de Ligt, who headed home his first goal for the club, putting United 1-0 ahead. De Ligt’s goal shifted the game in United’s favor and boosted the team’s confidence.
Before halftime, Marcus Rashford ended his goal drought by netting United’s second goal. Having not scored in the Premier League since March, Rashford’s goal provided relief for both himself and Ten Hag, giving United a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break.
In the second half, United continued to dominate, and Southampton’s hopes of a comeback faded after Jack Stephens received a red card for a reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho. With Southampton reduced to 10 men, United’s control over the match was sealed.
In the final moments, Dalot made up for his earlier mistake by setting up Garnacho, who coolly slotted home United’s third goal. The 3-0 scoreline reflected United’s depth and attacking power, with Garnacho’s goal capping off a commanding performance.
The win brought United to six points from their first four matches, showcasing their defensive strength, attacking flair, and Onana’s pivotal penalty save. United now prepare for a Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley on September 17 and a Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace on September 21, with momentum clearly on their side.
