Manchester United missed out on a perfect English week after two wins. The reason was obvious: Crystal Palace lacked composure, especially in the first half.
Manchester United had scored ten goals in their last two games after a mixed start, giving them a real boost in confidence. Crystal Palace got a taste of just how big this was from the outset. The overwhelmingly superior Red Devils, with Erik ten Hag back in the lineup after the 7-0 win (only Garnacho replaced Rashford compared to the last league game, the 3-0 win at Southampton), pinned the winless Eagles in their half. They created chances both from open play and from set pieces.
In the opening 15 minutes alone, de Ligt (3rd, 13th, twice with his head) and Garnacho (10th) went close to putting the home side in front, with Henderson saving three chances. The goalkeeper saw more dangerous attacks roll towards him. Among others, Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes hit the bar within a few moments (27th), and Zirkzee Henderson headed the ball straight into Henderson’s arms (30th).
Eze punishes ManUnited’s wastefulness
Instead of rewarding themselves for their strong performance, the Red Devils almost got caught out just before half-time. However, the completely alone Eze shot straight at Onana (44′).
The second half began as the first ended – with an opportunity for Eze. This time, de Ligt was the last man to throw himself in the way of the shot (47). Otherwise, the game initially continued to move in only one direction, towards the Palace goal. After Bruno Fernandes shot wide with the outside of his foot (52), Henderson once again made a fine save to keep out Garnacho (62). The scene, coupled with the substitution of the present Zirkzee a minute earlier, represented the turning point.
Crystal Palace closer to 1-0 in the last half hour
The Eagles were more effective and courageous in the last half hour. Suddenly, ManUnited were even in danger of losing. But Onana’s strong double save (65th) and Eze’s lack of composure (73rd) ultimately “saved” the point.
For the Red Devils, who have seven points from five games, it’s one thing after another. On Wednesday, they face a home game against Twente in the Europa League (9 p.m. CET), before Tottenham visit Old Trafford on September 29 (5:30 p.m. CET).