United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United needed saving today, and Ruben Amorim turned to Rasmus Hojlund to do it. The Danish striker scored twice off the bench in a match where the Reds struggled to get going in the Czech Republic.

Match Flow

Instead of taking the match to an inferior opponent early, United started poorly, making mistakes and failing to get a shot on target in the opening half-hour.

The first shot for the visitors that tested Martin Jedlicka was by Bruno Fernandes from outside the box in the 31st minute. The effort forced a decent diving save from the Plzeň keeper, who pushed the ball wide.

Amorim’s Reds finished the half with 71% possession yet were outshot eight to three. Although Onana’s goal was never truly in danger in the first period, the Czech side enjoyed freedom in attack, while United players were left frustrated by a lack of cohesion going forward.

The second half began disastrously for United. Andre Onana gave the ball away inside his area to Pavel Šulc, who set Matej Vydra up for an easy finish that provided the hosts a shock lead.

For a second straight match, Rasmus Hojlund was where he needed to be for a rebound finish. The Danish striker tapped the ball home in the 62nd minute after Amad Diallo’s effort was saved to pull the match level.

Mason Mount had a golden opportunity to score in the 76th minute, but his left-footed effort was saved by Jedlicka, who essentially sat on the ball before it passed through his legs.

A brilliant free-kick by Bruno Fernandes slipped Rasmus Hojlund in on goal, and the Dane made no mistake with his finish. A perfect first touch helped him hold off the Plzeň defender and fire the ball into the net with his left foot. This goal was all Manchester United to finish off a comeback 2-1 win.

Analysis

The Bad

Manchester United started slowly, with many players walking and passing the ball without real purpose. These slow starts have plagued United in the past few years, calling the players into question for their preparedness, especially against inferior sides.

Andre Onana has reverted to his mistake-filled form of last year after being one of the best players for United this season. His error provided the hosts with an easy goal on a day when he was rarely tested.

A major issue for much of the match was Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro being outplayed by Plzeň’s duo of Lukáš Červ and Lukáš Kalvach. The younger Czech midfielders were quicker and demonstrated a greater willingness to work in the middle of the pitch. Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte would have been better options for this match, as they could have provided more stability in midfield.

The Good

On the positive side, Rasmus Hojlund is beginning to find form. With his two today, the 21-year-old has five goals since Ruben Amorim took over.

United’s subs made a difference after coming on. Antony and Mason Mount brought intensity and purpose to the attack, which helped propel the team forward for the two goals.

Next Match

Manchester United face rivals Manchester City in the Manchester Derby on Sunday at the Etihad.