In a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester United edged out Newcastle United 3-2 on Wednesday, powered by a standout performance from Amad Diallo, who scored his first Premier League goal and provided a key assist. This victory was vital for both teams’ ambitions of securing a European berth next season.
Despite remaining eighth in the Premier League table, Manchester United now have 57 points, the same as seventh-placed Newcastle. Meanwhile, Chelsea, who secured a 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion earlier on Wednesday, climbed to sixth place with 60 points, taking a significant step toward securing a European spot.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes expressed cautious optimism after the match, telling Sky Sports, “Obviously the job isn’t finished yet. We still have one game in the Premier League then the biggest game of the season, the FA Cup final (on May 25 against holders Manchester City).”
Reflecting on the season, he added, “It has been a tough season. The table shows that and we are all aware of that. The fans have been amazing and behind us all season. We all appreciate what they have been doing for us. We want to do better and do differently and (the fans) deserve that.”
The match started with a bang as Kobbie Mainoo capitalized on Newcastle’s defensive lapses to open the scoring for Manchester United in the 31st minute. Amad Diallo’s precise pass found the unmarked 19-year-old, who turned and fired past Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka. Newcastle responded early in the second half when Anthony Gordon slid in a cross from Jacob Murphy to equalize in the 49th minute.
However, Diallo restored Manchester United’s lead in the 57th minute. Following a clearance from a Fernandes corner, Diallo, positioned just inside the 18-yard box, unleashed a powerful shot that left Dubravka with no chance. The excitement continued as substitute Rasmus Hojlund, who entered the game in the 82nd minute, scored almost immediately. Hojlund skillfully maneuvered past two defenders and slotted home from 16 yards, silencing the crowd with his celebration.
Newcastle fought back and reduced the deficit in injury time through Lewis Hall, but it was too late to deny Manchester United the victory. The win brought a much-needed positive end to what has been one of the most challenging home seasons for the Red Devils in recent years.
After the match, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag addressed the Old Trafford crowd, praising them as the “best supporters in the world.” Ten Hag acknowledged the tough season but commended the fans’ unwavering support, saying, “As you know it wasn’t an easy season, but one thing remained constant and that was the backing of you for the team.”
Looking ahead, he promised, “First we go to Brighton where we travel for three points (on the final day of the season on Sunday) and then we go to Wembley. And I promise you those players will give everything to get that cup and bring it to Old Trafford.”
The upcoming fixtures are crucial for Manchester United’s European aspirations. Winning the FA Cup would guarantee them a spot in the Europa League next season. Failing that, they must finish at least seventh in the league to secure a place in the Europa Conference League. United needs to better Newcastle’s result at Brentford on Sunday to clinch seventh place.
The match was not without controversy, as Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon voiced frustration over a missed penalty call after a tackle by Sofyan Amrabat. “I don’t understand the point in VAR? Amrabat fouled me and it’s a clear penalty,” Gordon lamented to Sky Sports. “Get rid (of VAR) or get better.”
As the season reaches its climax, Manchester United fans will be hoping for a strong finish both in the Premier League and the FA Cup, with the promise of European football next season hanging in the balance.
