The race for 4th place is particularly tight in the Premier League, at home to West Ham Manchester United had the chance to land big points – and did so late in stoppage time thanks to substitute Marcus Rashford.
Ralf Rangnick made just one change from the 3-1 defeat at Brentford FC: Lindelöf, whose house had been broken into during that game – his family had barricaded themselves in a room – was missing from the squad. Maguire started in his place and wore the captain’s armband.
In the six-point match in the battle for fourth place, surprisingly little happened at first, with neither team scoring in the first half. United had more of the game and the odd attacking move, but Areola was never seriously tested. Zouma caused a brief stir when he brought down Cristiano Ronaldo in the box, but Jonathan Moss’s whistle remained silent (36th minute).
Varane sniffing at the lead
After the restart, ManUnited became increasingly brave and after 50 minutes Fred took his first shot at the Hammers’ goal – but Areola made a great save from the Brazilian’s attempt. West Ham were inspired by this and shortly afterwards tried something themselves. Bowen shot from eleven metres to the right outer net (54.). The attacks became more and more determined, Varane sniffed at the lead with a header after a corner from Alex Telles (58.).
However, nothing happened for a long time and Rangnick brought out all his attacking potential with Rashford, Cavani and Martial. The courageous approach in the final phase was almost punished when Soucek headed narrowly past on the left after a corner (87th). Almost on the counterattack, Cristiano Ronaldo tried it for ManUnited, but Areola made a safe save (90th).
All three jokers sting
The Red Devils did manage to score the winner with the last action of the game – and all three jokers were involved: Martial served Cavani on the left side of the penalty area, the Uruguayan played flat and precise through the five-yard box. Rashford had run in there and just had to push the ball over the line (90.+3) – Old Trafford was upside down!
Manchester United secured the big points in the last second and knocked West Ham out of fourth place. After the international break, Rangnick’s team will play Middlesbrough in the FA Cup (4 February, 9 pm).
