Manchester United’s unpredictable start to the season continued this afternoon at Old Trafford with a thrilling comeback victory over Nottingham Forest.
The Red Devils had to put up a tremendous amount of effort to overturn Forest’s 2-0 lead and secure an important 3-2 victory. Joe Worrall’s dismissal in the second half undoubtedly helped them in their quest for three points.
After two generally lacklustre performances against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur, Erik ten Hag will likely exhale in relief, and this performance will hopefully spark United into action.
Who stood out for Man United against Nottingham Forest?
Even though they had 69% of the ball in the first half, United still trailed 2-1 going into the second half and needed a spark.
Bruno Fernandes, please step forward. After the break, the Portuguese midfielder was outstanding. He assisted Casemiro on his equalise thanks to a well-executed set-piece routine and then scored the game’s winning penalty with less than 15 minutes remaining.
He displayed his attacking skills by making three important passes, creating two large chances, and even missing one big chance, suggesting that he may have even increased to his goal tally. His Sofascore rating of 8.8/10 was the highest of any player on the pitch.
His performance was praised by journalist Samuel Luckhurst, who said: “Fernandes has been United’s greatest player. After some pitiful punditry on his leadership during the week, his name was sung aloud in the opening minute. He has done a wonderful job leading MUFC over the past year.
Although another Red Devils hero, Antony, put on an excellent performance that may have been the spark that got him going, his creative abilities were on full display, and it was his performance that allowed United to earn the victory.
Against Nottingham Forest, how did Antony fare?
The Brazilian winger had only produced one significant opportunity and one successful dribble in his first two league games, but against Forest at Old Trafford, he came to life.
He was positioned on the right wing and during his time on the pitch, he produced one significant chance while also making four crucial passes.
The former Ajax superstar attempted a total of four shots throughout the game, suggesting he was anxious to get his first goal of the campaign.
Reporter Alex Turk lauded him for his performance in the second half, saying: “Antony has been great in the second half, too. Much better than the first.
Despite not contributing a goal or an assist, Antony was spectacular and will rightfully receive all the praise.
Ten Hag will be hoping that this would significantly enhance his self-confidence because, at his best, the 23-year-old can be a frightening attacking threat on the wing.
With Champions League play beginning the following month, having Antony at his peak will greatly increase their chances of winning.
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