2.73 xG, 11 fouls committed – Rúben Amorim left “furious” at Manchester United display vs Plzen

Manchester United would have left Rúben Amorim “furious” following their 2-1 win over FC Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League.

Manchester United secured an important 2-1 victory away to FC Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League, with Rasmus Højlund delivering both goals to lead Rúben Amorim’s side to a hard-fought win.

United started brightly, controlling possession, but their dominance was undermined by poor passing and miscommunication, allowing Plzeň to defend comfortably.

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The match took a dramatic turn early in the second half when André Onana’s costly mistake handed the hosts an unexpected lead. United, however, found a response through Rasmus Højlund, who capitalized on a rebound after Amad Diallo’s electrifying run and initial effort.

As the clock ran down, Mason Mount spurned a chance to put United ahead, and frustration began to set in. But captain Bruno Fernandes stepped up once again, delivering a pinpoint assist that allowed Højlund to score the decisive goal with just minutes remaining.

The victory moves United into the top eight of the Europa League standings, putting them in a strong position to avoid the play-off stage in the new year.

Amorim left “furious”

Many fans expressed their dismay at United’s first half, with some claiming that it was the poorest opening 45-minute display from the squad this season. Former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves explained that Amorim will have been left “furious” with his players.

“They have dominated possession but not created anything really,” Hargreaves said on TNT Sports. “I don’t want to make excuses but maybe it is cold. They need to do more, they have good players out there.

“Bruno [Fernandes] is there to play that ball but it is not on, just keep it. They are trying to find their way with the system. Amorim will be furious that they have played like that.”

United had an xG of 2.73 against Plzen, with Mason Mount, Antony, and Casemiro all failing to take good chances, although Højlund’s great cameo made up for the errors.

They also gave away 11 fouls, with the side looking slow to react, and Plzen often first to second balls – an issue that has plagued the squad all season. Rúben Amorim will no doubt be wanting to fix this, with the club targeting athletic and robust players in the upcoming windows.

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