Rasmus Højlund, who came on as a substitute in the second half, netted two goals to help Manchester United rally for a 2-1 victory against Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League on December 12.
Viktoria Plzeň Early Advantage
The hosts gained the advantage just after the break, but Højlund equalized in the 62nd minute, six minutes after coming on for Marcus Rashford when the Danish forward scored by tapping in Amad Diallo deflected attempt.
Højlund Decisive Late Goal
Just two minutes before the end, he scored again against Plzeň goalkeeper Martin Jedlicka with a precise finish, spinning away from his defender after Man United captain Bruno Fernandes had located him in the box with a skillful free-kick.
Matej Vydra Opener
Matej Vydra, who has played for Watford, West Brom, Reading, Derby, and Burnley, netted the first goal for the home team with a close-range shot just three minutes into the second half.
Pavel Sulc discovered Vydra in front of an unguarded goal after he had intercepted a pass from United goalkeeper Andre Onana within the penalty area.
Managerial Adjustments
The aim served as a wake-up call for United manager, Ruben Amorim, who implemented three substitutions as a response, one of which was Højlund.
“It wasn’t an impressive match,” Amorim stated, while also complimenting the players who came off the bench.
“They revolutionized the game. Their purpose is to achieve that, so I am satisfied with it.”
Post-Match Reactions
He stated that he was pleased with the result: “It was essential to persist, so that sends a wonderful message.”
The ex-Sporting Lisbon manager took over after Eric ten Hag was dismissed in November, but the cold night in Plzeň revealed that United still has progress to make.
Match Summary
Both teams entered the match with nine points after playing five Europa League matches, and they needed some time to get into their rhythm.
Fernandes recorded the initial shot on goal thirty minutes into the match, but Jedlicka deflected his low right-footed attempt from the outskirts of the box.
Onana observed Cheick Souare strike bend narrowly beyond the upper corner of his net two minutes before halftime.
Mason Mount and Antony, both substitutes for United, were thwarted by Jedlicka during the second half, with Mount unable to score against the goalkeeper on two occasions from a short distance.
Looking Ahead
Højlund changed the course of the match, placing United in a favorable position for direct entry into the last 16.
“We didn’t have ample time to develop this kind of game. While we managed to control the match, we lacked the rhythm (during the first half),” stated Amorim.
“We aim to enhance our performance, and we wish to do so at a rapid pace,” he stated.
Manchester United next match is against Rangers at Old Trafford on January 23.
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