Manchester United 1-0 Fulham
Manchester United kicked off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford. The match, held on August 16, 2024, saw Joshua Zirkzee score a late winner on his debut, securing three points for the Red Devils.
Joshua Zirkzee - Manchester United
Key Moments:
- First Half: The game began with a frantic pace, with Marcus Rashford nearly scoring in the first 30 seconds, only to be flagged offside. Fulham’s Adama Traore posed an early threat, but United’s new signing Noussair Mazraoui made a crucial interception. United had several chances, with Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount both denied by Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno.
- Second Half: United continued to dominate possession and create opportunities. Andre Onana made important saves to keep Fulham at bay. The breakthrough came in the 88th minute when Zirkzee converted a cross from Alejandro Garnacho, sealing the win for United.
Match Statistics:
- Manchester United: 56% possession, 14 shots (5 on target), 7 corner kicks, 2 yellow cards.
- Fulham: 44% possession, 10 shots (2 on target), 8 corner kicks, 3 yellow cards.
Comparing Manchester United’s Season Starts (Last 5 Seasons)
2024/25 Season:
- Result: 1-0 win against Fulham
- Key Player: Joshua Zirkzee (debut goal)
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2023/24 Season:
- Result: 2-1 win against Brighton
- Key Player: Bruno Fernandes (scored a penalty and assisted the winning goal)
2022/23 Season:
- Result: 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace
- Key Player: Marcus Rashford (scored the only goal for United)
2021/22 Season:
- Result: 5-1 win against Leeds United
- Key Player: Bruno Fernandes (hat-trick)
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2020/21 Season:
- Result: 3-1 win against Newcastle United
- Key Player: Bruno Fernandes (goal and assist)
2019/20 Season:
- Result: 4-0 win against Chelsea
- Key Player: Marcus Rashford (scored twice)
Analysis:
Over the last five seasons, Manchester United has experienced both strong and unsteady beginnings. The 2024/25 season kicked off with a hard-earned victory, demonstrating the team's tenacity and the positive impact of new players like Zirkzee. In contrast, the 2022/23 season started with a disheartening defeat, which pointed to their inconsistency. Bruno Fernandes, in particular, has consistently excelled in multiple season openers, emphasizing his crucial role in the team.
The team's capacity to clinch victories in their initial games often predicts the trajectory of their season. The slim win against Fulham indicates room for improvement in their finishing skills, yet it also marks an encouraging commencement, thanks to the input from new squad members.
What are your thoughts on United’s performance and their season prospects leave a comment below?
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