Manchester United’s season has already hit a roadblock, and it’s only the second game in. The Red Devils suffered a crushing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Brighton, with Joao Pedro scoring a dramatic 95th-minute winner.
The defeat has left United fans feeling deflated, and it’s a familiar feeling. The team’s performance was a case of “same old, same old” – with the same mistakes and shortcomings on display.
Despite clawing their way back into the game after going behind to a Danny Welbeck goal, United’s defense was woeful in the dying seconds of the game. They failed to clear a corner, and Pedro pounced on the opportunity to score the winner.
The defeat is a worrying sign for United, who had hoped to build on their opening day win over Fulham. Instead, they were left to rue their mistakes and missed opportunities.
Winger Amad Diallo was guilty of missing a golden opportunity in the 10th minute, and Casemiro headed over the bar soon after. United’s profligacy in front of goal was a major factor in their defeat.
Brighton, on the other hand, were well-organized and clinical in their finishing. They took advantage of United’s mistakes and deserved their win.
United’s manager Erik ten Hag will be disappointed with his team’s performance, particularly in defense. He will need to address these issues quickly if United are to mount a serious challenge this season.
For now, United’s fans are left to ponder what could have been, and to wonder when their team will finally learn from their mistakes.
Joao Pedro scored a 95th-minute winner to see Brighton claim a 2-1 victory over Manchester United
Pedro slammed home a header from a cross to maintain the Seagulls’ perfect start to the season
Manchester United players will feel deflated after two offside calls went against them
The defeat is a bitter pill to swallow for United, who had hoped to build momentum after their opening day win. Instead, they are left to regroup and reflect on what went wrong.
Ten Hag will need to address the team’s defensive frailties and find a way to get his team scoring consistently. Until then, United’s fans will be left to wonder what could have been.