The term “professional job” aptly described Manchester United’s performance as they secured a convincing win over Southampton, marking only their second Premier League victory of the season. This result provided a crucial boost for Erik ten Hag and his team, who had been under increasing pressure after a shaky start to their campaign. With three well-executed goals, a clean sheet, and several standout performances, the day was filled with positives for United, despite a few injury concerns.
From the beginning, United appeared focused and intent on imposing their game at St Mary’s. They gradually found their rhythm, although the match could have turned differently early on. Around the 30-minute mark, Southampton had a golden chance to take an unexpected lead when Diogo Dalot, struggling against the energetic Tyler Dibbling, conceded a penalty. This defensive lapse from Dalot gave Southampton an opportunity to disrupt United’s plans.
However, United’s new goalkeeper, Andre Onana, came to the rescue by saving Cameron Archer’s penalty, keeping the score level. Onana’s crucial save not only thwarted Southampton’s chance to gain an advantage but also ended their offensive threat, as they failed to register another shot on target for the remainder of the match.
Onana’s penalty save shifted the momentum in United’s favor, allowing them to control the game and capitalize on their superior quality. Matthijs de Ligt, instrumental in securing United’s second clean sheet of the 2024/25 season, praised Onana’s performance, acknowledging the importance of the win. “It was obviously really important to win,” De Ligt told TNT Sports after the match on September 14. “If you only get three points from the first three games, it’s not enough. So, there was some pressure on this match.”
De Ligt, named Man of the Match, had a commanding performance, making key headers and tackles, and providing a crucial clearance when Southampton applied early pressure. After a 3-0 loss to Liverpool and some personal mistakes with the Netherlands, this game was a chance for redemption, and De Ligt rose to the occasion.
Following Onana’s save, De Ligt also made an impact offensively, heading in a cross from Bruno Fernandes to give United the lead. This well-placed header energized the team. United’s second goal came from a stunning curling shot by Marcus Rashford, who had been working hard in training to find form. Rashford’s goal, from a well-executed corner, showcased United’s growing prowess in set pieces.
The influence of set-piece coach Andreas Georgson, recruited from Lillestrom by Ineos, is beginning to show. De Ligt acknowledged that while his goal wasn’t from a rehearsed play, Fernandes’s vision was key. “We’ve been working on set pieces,” De Ligt said. “This one wasn’t straight from the book, but it was a great spot from Fernandes.” His comments reflect United’s gradual improvement, especially in set-piece situations, which could be crucial as the season progresses.
As the match continued, United maintained control, and the introduction of Alejandro Garnacho added fresh energy to their attack. The young Argentine capped off his strong performance with a powerful goal, following good build-up play from Diogo Dalot and Casemiro. Garnacho’s contribution provided a fitting end to a game that initially seemed tense but ultimately favored United.
Looking ahead, Erik ten Hag and his team can draw confidence from this victory. The clean sheet, clinical finishing, and composure under pressure are all signs of progress. For Ten Hag, this result should ease some of the scrutiny from earlier in the season. Despite an inconsistent start, United are showing signs of growth, and performances like this will be crucial in restoring belief within the squad and among fans.
The significance of Onana’s penalty save cannot be overstated, as it prevented United from potentially falling into chaos. It also allowed players like De Ligt, Rashford, and Garnacho to shine, culminating in a game filled with positives. As De Ligt summed up, “Hopefully, we can keep getting results like this and grow as a team.” United will aim to build on this momentum and continue their ascent in the Premier League, hoping to transform this early-season revival into sustained success.
