Patrick Dorgu made a sensational debut for Manchester United, scoring a blistering volley that secured a crucial victory against Newcastle at Old Trafford.
Heading into the Premier League‘s sole Boxing Day match, Manchester United had not won at home in two months and was without seven key players, including star midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
Under the management of Ruben Amorim, the restructured team excelled with a solid defensive formation, claiming a 1-0 win thanks to Dorgu’s exquisite strike from the right wing.
The versatile Denmark international displayed an all-around performance, impressing on both offense and defense. Last month, his manager noted that he could “feel the anxiety” with every touch, but this evening was different as he followed up his goal with strong defensive efforts, helping United achieve only their second clean sheet of the season.
Newcastle pushed hard for an equalizer, with Lewis Hall hitting the crossbar, further compounding the visitors’ struggles on the road.
In the last moments of the match, United shifted to a back five, commenced with Lisandro Martínez at the heart of defense, who captained the team in his first start in 327 days.
Another change saw Casemiro come close early on with a header, as Newcastle struggled to adapt to the tactical changes made by Amorim.
Benjamin Sesko could have increased United’s lead but missed a clear chance after a good setup from Dorgu. Meanwhile, the visitors had to contend with Senne Lammens, who remained vigilant to deny Bruno Guimarães‘ header from a corner.
Amorim’s side held their ground, with Sesko’s clever flick to Matheus Cunha shifting momentum toward United’s favor. Ramsdale brilliantly kept out Cunha’s shot, but Dorgu capitalized on a subsequent throw-in. He connected with a well-hit volley that found the back of the net, beating Ramsdale despite the goalkeeper’s effort to intervene.
Just before the half-time break, Cunha missed narrowly and Mason Mount did not reappear for the second half as Jack Fletcher, son of former United favorite Darren, made his home debut in his place.
Manchester United started slowly, reminiscent of their last home game against Bournemouth, as Fabian Schär had a shot deflected wide off Dorgu.
Newcastle seemed to be in control, but after Guimaraes lost possession, Sesko sent a powerful shot that struck the crossbar. Following this, he was substituted along with a surprised Casemiro, just as Hall’s risky long-range shot rattled the bar at the other end.
Hall proved to be a constant threat, and Newcastle sought a penalty for a potential handball against Martínez, but VAR ruled in favor of United after a thorough review.
Anthony Gordon fired a low shot across the goal, but Newcastle continued to press as United shifted back to a familiar five-man defense.
Dalot skied a free-kick attempt into the Stretford End as United fought to hold onto their lead, with Newcastle’s attempts to breach the defense met with strong resistance. As stoppage time approached, Lewis Miley missed a chance as the visitors searched for an equalizer.