United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United defeated Bodo/Glimt 3-2, securing a victory for Ruben Amorim in his first match at Old Trafford. Here’s how the action unfolded.

In Ruben Amorim’s first match as manager, Marcus Rashford scored just a minute and a half into the game. In his second match, Alejandro Garnacho found the net within 55 seconds. A mistake by the visiting goalkeeper allowed Rasmus Hojlund to apply pressure and make a tackle. The ball broke loose, and Garnacho tapped it in to give his team an early 1-0 lead.

Bodo/Glimt equalized spectacularly against the run of play in the 18th minute. Midfielder Hakon Evjen struck the ball first-time into the top corner, leaving Andre Onana with no chance to save it.

Three minutes later, the visitors took the advantage. Philip Zinckernagel burned Tyrell Malacia for pace on a ball over the top and slotted the ball past Onana in the net.

Just before the half, Manchester United leveled through Rasmus Hojlund. Noussair Mazraoui won the ball back in midfield and crossed to Hojlund, who took a brilliant first touch with his left foot and scored with his right. It was the Dane’s first goal since mid-October.

Hojlund restored United’s lead just after half on an assist from Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan midfielder slipped a low cross into the Dane, who poked the ball home.

Manchester United controlled much of the second half after the goal, though Andre Onana was forced into a slide tackle outside of his box that likely saved a goal.

Defensively, Amorim has a lot of work to do as his side looked out of sorts more often than not. Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia struggled on the left side positionally, while gaps were left in transition in the midfield.

The attack improved, highlighted by two goals and an assist from Rasmus Hojlund. The Reds need greater production from the center-forward position, and today’s match will boost confidence in what Hojlund can deliver.

Manchester United have a quick turnaround and will face Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday.