Southampton vs Manchester United: Premier League 2024 - Match Analysis

Final Score: Southampton 0-3 Manchester United

Overview

Manchester United secured a much-needed 3-0 victory over Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium on September 14, 2024. Goals from Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho ensured a comfortable win for Erik ten Hag's side, who were under pressure following a poor start to the season. Southampton, on the other hand, continued their dismal run, having lost all four of their opening Premier League games since their promotion.

Key Moments and Turning Points

First Half

• Penalty Save by Andre Onana: The game could have taken a different turn had Cameron Archer converted his penalty in the 33rd minute. Onana's save was crucial, as it kept the score level and provided a psychological boost to United.
• Matthijs de Ligt's Goal (35'): Just two minutes after the penalty save, de Ligt headed home from a Bruno Fernandes cross, giving United the lead. This goal was significant as it came during a period when Southampton were the better side.
• Marcus Rashford's Goal (41'): Rashford doubled United's lead with a well-placed shot from the edge of the area. This goal ended his 12-game goal drought and was a much-needed confidence booster for the forward.

Second Half

• Jack Stephens' Red Card (79'): Southampton's captain was sent off for a reckless challenge on Garnacho, reducing the Saints to ten men and effectively ending their hopes of a comeback.
• Alejandro Garnacho's Goal (90+6'): Garnacho added a third goal in stoppage time, capping off a dominant performance by United.

Tactical Analysis

Manchester United

• Formation and Lineup: United lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Notable inclusions were Christian Eriksen in midfield and Amad Diallo on the right wing. Manuel Ugarte, a new signing, started on the bench.
• Defensive Solidity: The partnership of Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez in central defense was solid, with de Ligt particularly impressive. Diogo Dalot, despite conceding the penalty, managed to hold his own against the lively Tyler Dibling.
• Midfield Control: Eriksen and Kobbie Mainoo started in midfield, providing a balance of creativity and defensive cover. Eriksen's experience and passing range were crucial in controlling the tempo of the game.
• Attacking Threat: Rashford, Zirkzee, and Diallo provided pace and directness in attack. Rashford's goal was a testament to his quality, while Zirkzee's movement created space for his teammates.

Southampton

• Formation and Lineup: Southampton also lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Tyler Dibling, an 18-year-old making his first Premier League start, was a standout performer.
• Missed Opportunities: The penalty miss by Archer was a turning point. Southampton had been the better side up to that point, and converting the penalty could have changed the game's dynamics.
• Defensive Frailties: The Saints struggled to deal with United's set-pieces and quick transitions. Jack Stephens' red card further compounded their defensive issues.
• Midfield Battle: Lesley Ugochukwu and Flynn Downes provided energy and bite in midfield but were eventually overrun by United's quality and experience.

Player Performances

Manchester United

• Andre Onana (8/10): His penalty save was crucial and he was solid throughout the game.
• Matthijs de Ligt (9/10): Scored the opening goal and was a rock in defense.
• Marcus Rashford (7/10): Ended his goal drought with a well-taken goal and looked more confident.
• Christian Eriksen (7/10): Controlled the midfield and provided the assist for de Ligt's goal.
• Alejandro Garnacho (7/10): Came off the bench to score the third goal, showing his potential.

Southampton

• Aaron Ramsdale (7/10): Made several important saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
• Tyler Dibling (8/10): The young winger was a constant threat and won the penalty.
• Jack Stephens (4/10): His red card was a turning point and left his team with an uphill battle.

Managerial Decisions

Erik ten Hag

• Team Selection: Opted for experience in midfield with Eriksen and gave Amad Diallo a start on the right wing. His decision to bench Casemiro paid off.
• Substitutions: Introduced Garnacho, Ugarte, and Maguire to manage the