Manchester United came from behind to beat Aston Villa 3-2 in a thrilling Premier League encounter at Old Trafford. The hosts, who had lost their previous two games, showed their resilience and quality to snatch a vital three points that keep them in the hunt for a top-four finish.
The game started with both teams playing cautiously, as they knew the importance of the result. Villa took the lead in the 21st minute, when John McGinn scored with a powerful free kick from Fernandes' foul.
Villa did not give up and scored again before half time when Leander Dendoncker scored with a low shot from inside the box in the 26th minute
The second half was more open and exciting, as both teams played well. Villa had more possession and chances, but United defended well and created some opportunities of their own.
Man Utd scored a goal from Rashford's pass to Garnacho which was ruled out for offside of which the Argentine scored again in the 59th minute from Rashford's assist again.
In the 71st minute, United scored again, when Alejandro Garnacho scored with a stunning volley from outside the box. The Argentine winger had been so impressive during the game run.
The game seemed headed for a draw, but United showed their character and determination to win it. In the 82nd minute, Hojlund Scores His First Premier League Goal As Man Utd Come From Behind To Beat Aston Villa 3 - 2
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among United players and fans, who were delighted with their performance and result. United moved up to 6th place ahead of West Ham who beat them 2-0 during the weekend.
United manager Erik ten Hag praised his team’s spirit and quality after the game. He said: “It was a very tough game against a very good team. We knew they were dangerous and we had to be focused and disciplined. We showed our character and quality to come back and win it at the death. It was a great result for us.”
Villa manager Unai Emery admitted that his team were unlucky not to get anything from the game. He said: “We played well but we did not have enough luck today. We deserved more than this result because we created more chances than them. We have to keep working hard and improving our consistency.”
The game also featured some notable performances from individual players on both sides. For United, Eriksen was impressive with his passing and vision; Garnacho was outstanding with his finishing; Rashford was sensational with his dribbling; Hojlund was clinical with his winning goal.
For Villa, Dendoncker was dominant at centre-back; Bailey was solid at right wing-back; McGinn was lively.
The game also saw some controversial moments that could have gone either way or changed everything if not for VAR decisions or referee decisions.