United Finally Deliver a Comeback Win
Manchester United finally secured their first comeback victory of the season, ending weeks of frustration and unanswered doubts. Fans had almost given up hope, but Zirkzee’s brilliant spin-and-volley into the near post reignited Old Trafford. Moments later, a set-piece scramble saw Mason Mount—long criticised and doubted—curl the ball into the corner, sealing a hard-earned win.
Compared to the last two matchdays where United only rescued a point in stoppage time, this victory showed resilience, belief, and composure. It was a result that 12BET Malaysia fans had been waiting for. (Login 12BET for more Premier League insights)
United Still Exposed at the Back
Crystal Palace nearly broke United hearts in the final minutes with a dangerous free-kick, but their recent lack of cutting edge struck again. Just days earlier, Palace had fallen in the Conference League due to wasteful finishing—and history repeated itself.
Zirkzee’s goal was his first for United in nearly a year, a much-needed breakthrough. But despite the uplifting comeback, United’s long-standing weaknesses remain painfully visible. The wings lack penetration, transitions are slow, and defensive cover is far from reliable.
United spent heavily on talent like Šeško, yet the real priority should have been full-backs and a strong defensive midfielder. With seven points dropped in the last three rounds, it’s clear United are still far from consistent Top-4 quality—something 12BET Malaysia analysts have repeatedly noted.
Transfer Dilemma Intensifies
United now face a major strategic question: reinforce in January or stay put?
If they do invest, should it be a midfielder or a wing-back?
Despite poor form from Dalot and Dorgu, the most urgent need remains a dominant No.6—someone capable of shielding the defence the way Caicedo does for Chelsea. With a proper midfield anchor, United’s back line would look far more secure.
Yoro’s halftime substitution was a clear sign of United being overrun in midfield. Forced mistakes come from being constantly exposed.
Amorim Makes the Right Adjustments
Manager Amorim avoided repeating last week’s mistake. Instead of forcing Amad into an unnatural left attacking role, he shifted him back to right wing-back. He restored Mason Mount to his natural position and replaced Dorgu with Dalot—half a step forward, but in the right direction.
Amorim then publicly criticised both full-backs, saying they underperformed compared to training and lacked courage.
This wasn’t new. Fans had long seen Dorgu panic on the ball, lacking confidence and aggression—traits no data model can reveal.
Even legends like Cantona and Alan Hansen felt nerves at big clubs, but they hid it well and compensated with ability. Dorgu, however, wears pressure visibly, and that affects the squad. Scouting needs more than numbers; it requires reading mentality and character—something 12BET Malaysia tactical columns often highlight.
United Outrun a Fatigued Palace
Crystal Palace looked composed early on, fresh off a European clash, and deserved their lead. But by halftime, they knew they couldn’t keep up physically. Despite United’s reputation of low running stats, this time they were fresher, faster, and more prepared.
Once Palace failed to score a second goal, momentum tilted. Their Europa-Conference commitments drained their legs, giving United the upper hand. Over the past five seasons, Palace had been a nightmare opponent for United, especially at Old Trafford—but this time, the physical gap showed.
Squad Options Opening Up
With Cunha and Šeško unavailable, United relied on existing squad pieces to grind out a comeback. The best news of the night was Lisandro Martínez’s return, giving Amorim greater flexibility.
Luke Shaw can finally return to left flank duties, offering width and delivery that had been missing for far too long. Even if some fans find Shaw “slow,” he is miles more dependable than Dorgu.
Looking ahead, Amad may move higher up the pitch, with Mbembo shifting to the left inside channel—an adjustment that could significantly improve both creativity and defensive balance.
United have left-footed full-backs in the squad; they just need the chance to prove themselves before the club loses homegrown talents to Europe’s giants again. It was a result that 12BET Malaysia fans had been waiting for. (Login 12BET for more Premier League insights)