United Miss Golden Chance to Enter Top Five
Manchester United were held to a 1–1 draw by West Ham at Old Trafford, once again wasting a huge opportunity to rise to fifth in the Premier League table.
Since last month, United have had four chances to break into the top four or top five, yet every time the door opened, Ruben Amorim’s team collapsed at the critical moment.
Fans on 12BET Malaysia were frustrated again, with many logging in early to follow the rising odds—only for United to disappoint right when expectations peaked. For live updates and matchday insights, users are encouraged to login 12BET.
Pre Match Concerns and Unexpected Absence
Before the match, Amorim hinted that two key players might miss the game. Early rumours suggested Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee, but both trained and started.
The real absence was Matthijs de Ligt, who had played every minute this season and recently won United’s Player of the Month award. A minor injury kept him out, giving youngster Hayden his first Premier League start.
Masraoui and Cunha also came into the lineup. Analysts on 12BET MALAYSIA noted that Amorim seemed to be testing unfamiliar combinations at a risky time.
Amorim Explains Tactical Selection Choices
Amorim clarified that De Ligt’s injury was minor and expected him back against Wolves.
He also addressed why teenage defender Leny Yoro was benched:
“We have to consider all factors. I spoke to him—it wasn’t about whether he starts, but why the decision was made.”
A calm explanation, though 12BET Malaysia communities still questioned the timing of the experiment.
United Create Early Threat but No Breakthrough
Just minutes into the match, Amad Diallo drove into the box and went down under pressure, but the referee waved play on.
United supporters were unhappy with several decisions throughout the match, believing former player Wan-Bissaka should have been sent off.
Still, United created good chances. Mbeumo attempted a surprising chip from the right side, forcing Areola into a flying save.
Live bettors on 12BET Malaysia noted United’s strong start—but as always, consistency was the issue.
Three Big Chances Go Wasted Before Halftime
United produced a flurry of shots:
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Amad’s low cross found Zirkzee, whose finish was cleared off the line
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Cunha’s overhead attempt was blocked
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Bruno’s follow-up hit the outside of the post
West Ham also had a legitimate penalty shout when Mazraoui clipped Soucek, but the Czech midfielder stayed on his feet and no call was given.
Despite the intensity, it remained 0–0 at halftime—worrying signs for those tracking United’s scoring form on 12BET MALAYSIA.
United Take the Lead Through Dalot
Yoro replaced Hayden at halftime after a shaky first 45 minutes.
United finally opened the scoring in the 58th minute when Casemiro’s deflected shot fell to Diogo Dalot, who calmly finished from close range.
It was Dalot’s first Premier League goal in two years, putting United 1–0 ahead and shifting in-play odds rapidly on 12BET Malaysia.
Many fans rushed to login 12BET as momentum looked set for a home win.
Substitutions Fail Again Under Pressure
Dalot was soon substituted to applause, with Amorim bringing on Dogu, Ugarte, and Mount to protect the lead.
But as seen against Tottenham last month, these defensive changes had the opposite effect.
Despite being regarded by English media as one of the strongest set-piece teams this season, United conceded from a corner once again.
Late Equalizer Breaks United Hearts Again
In the 83rd minute, West Ham delivered a dangerous corner:
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Bowen’s header was cleared off the line by Mazraoui
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But Makasa smashed in the rebound, making it 1–1
United have only one clean sheet this entire season—an alarming statistic highlighted repeatedly on 12BET MALAYSIA match trackers.
Old Trafford echoed with boos as the final whistle blew.
United Collapse Under Expectations Again
United often perform well when written off—but once hope rises, they fade.
This pattern has repeated for years, especially during December, historically their weakest period: United have lost 9 of their last 14 matches played in this month.
Players bowed their heads at full-time, displaying the fragile mentality that Amorim desperately needs to fix.
Even with potential signings in the January window, mentality remains the core problem, as many comments on 12BET Malaysia pointed out.
Amorim Refuses to Blame His Decisions
When asked whether he regretted his substitutions, Amorim responded:
“No. We conceded because we didn’t win the second ball. Do we have more attacking options? Who else? Who can increase our scoring output?”
He added:
“We had strong moments, but after halftime and after the goal, we lost control. After breaking the deadlock, we should have pushed to kill the match.”
United fans monitoring form trends on 12BET MALAYSIA worry the same issues will continue unless the team develops consistency and mental resilience.
For live analysis and odds on upcoming fixtures, bettors are encouraged to login 12BET.