Ruben Amorim celebrated his first victory as Manchester United head coach with a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over Bodo/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League at Old Trafford. The Portuguese manager, who joined United earlier this month, expressed gratitude for the warm reception from fans, describing the atmosphere as “special” during his home debut.
The victory was far from straightforward, as United overcame defensive lapses and a spirited Bodo/Glimt side to secure three crucial points, lifting them to 12th in the Europa League standings with nine points, two ahead of their Norwegian opponents.
A Dramatic Start
United couldn’t have asked for a better start to the game. Within 60 seconds, they capitalized on a costly error from Bodo/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin. Under pressure from Rasmus Højlund, Haikin failed to clear a back pass, allowing the ball to break free for Alejandro Garnacho, who calmly tapped into an empty net.
Despite the early lead, United failed to maintain control, and Bodo/Glimt hit back with two quick goals.
Bodo/Glimt’s Stunning Response
The Norwegian visitors stunned the Old Trafford crowd with their dynamic counterattacking play. Hakon Evjen equalized in the 19th minute with a spectacular curling effort into the top corner, showcasing his technical brilliance. Just minutes later, Philip Zinckernagel outmuscled Tyrell Malacia on a breakaway and slotted past Andre Onana, putting Bodo/Glimt ahead and silencing the home fans.
Højlund Inspires United’s Comeback
On the stroke of halftime, Rasmus Højlund leveled the score with a brilliant goal. Noussair Mazraoui delivered a precise pass into the box, and Højlund displayed exceptional control before rifling the ball into the far corner between two defenders. The Danish striker’s equalizer shifted momentum back to United heading into the break.
Five minutes into the second half, Højlund struck again to give United the lead. Manuel Ugarte’s low cross was met by Højlund, who guided the ball into the net for his second goal of the night. His clinical finishing and movement were instrumental in United’s comeback, earning him the Man of the Match accolade.
Højlund’s touch and finish or Kady’s solo strike?
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Onana’s Crucial Saves Secure the Win
While United dominated large portions of the second half, they couldn’t extend their lead despite several opportunities. Mason Mount came close, hitting the crossbar with a curling effort, while Garnacho and Højlund saw chances go begging.
In the closing stages, Andre Onana made two vital saves to preserve United’s advantage. The Cameroonian goalkeeper’s composure under pressure ensured that the Red Devils secured all three points, marking their second consecutive Europa League victory.
Amorim’s Post-Match Reflections
Speaking after the game, Ruben Amorim praised his players for their effort and adaptability. “Of course, I see what everybody sees—good moments, difficult moments,” Amorim told TNT Sports. “There was some confusion in the end trying to hold the result, but the lads did a great job. They ran, they pressed, they tried to do the things we have worked on in the last three days, and we won.”
Amorim was also moved by the support of the Manchester United fans during his home debut. “Half of the stadium doesn’t know me. I came from Portugal, and I did nothing for this club. Yet the way they make me feel at home is special. I will keep this to the end of my career,” he said.
– Ruben Amorim’s FULL post-match interview against Bodo/Glimt.
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A Roller-Coaster Match
Amorim described the match as a “roller-coaster,” acknowledging the defensive vulnerabilities that allowed Bodo/Glimt to score twice in the first half. “We started well but then suffered two goals in two transitions. I like the way the players tried to play our game,” he said.
The Portuguese manager emphasized the importance of possession and reducing turnovers, areas where he has focused since his arrival. “Sometimes we won the ball and have had problems in the past giving the ball away too much. The mindset is keeping the ball. They are really trying, and I think we deserved the win,” he added.
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Key Performances
- Rasmus Højlund (Manchester United): The Danish striker was the standout performer, scoring twice and leading United’s attacking efforts with energy and precision.
- Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United): The full-back provided a key assist for Højlund’s first goal and was a constant threat on the right flank.
- Andre Onana (Manchester United): Made two crucial saves in the dying minutes to secure the win for United.
- Hakon Evjen (Bodo/Glimt): Scored a stunning goal and was a creative force for the visitors throughout the match.
What’s Next for United?
The victory lifts Manchester United to 12th in the Europa League standings and boosts their chances of advancing to the knockout stages. Ruben Amorim’s tenure is off to a promising start, but there is still work to be done, particularly in addressing defensive lapses.
United’s next challenge will be in the Premier League as they aim to build on the momentum of this win. Amorim will look to continue implementing his tactical philosophy and instilling confidence in his squad as they navigate a busy fixture schedule.
For Bodo/Glimt, the loss pushes them further down the group standings, but their spirited performance at Old Trafford will give them confidence as they return to domestic competition.
