United and Bodø/Glimt produce Europa League classic
Manchester United 3 - 2 Bodø/Glimt
Ruben Amorim's first home match as Manchester United boss ended in a win for his new club.
The Red Devils secured a winning start at Old Trafford under new manager Ruben Amorim, coming from behind to defeat Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League.
The home side wasted no time finding the net, with a goal after just 48 seconds – even quicker than their 81-second opener in Amorim’s debut match at Ipswich. The breakthrough came from an error by goalkeeper Nikita Haikin, who hesitated on a routine clearance, allowing Rasmus Højlund to close him down and set up Alejandro Garnacho for a simple tap-in.
However, rather than setting the stage for a comfortable evening, the early goal sparked a frustrating spell for the hosts. Bodø/Glimt responded with two goals in just four minutes, turning the game on its head and taking the lead with less than 25 minutes played.
Thankfully for United, Højlund brought Old Trafford to its feet with a brilliant finish to equalise before half-time. The Danish striker then sealed the victory five minutes into the second half, converting Manuel Ugarte's low cross from close range.
While Amorim will take heart from the result, which strengthens United’s position in the Europa League group and boosts their chances of automatic qualification for the last 16, he is likely to be frustrated by the number of missed opportunities to kill off the game.
Garnacho had two golden chances to extend the lead, misfiring when better-placed teammates awaited a pass and sending another shot over the bar despite being under no pressure. Substitute Marcus Rashford also fired wide during a late surge.
Ultimately, United held on for a nervy finish to secure Amorim’s first win since joining from Sporting earlier this month. While there’s still room for improvement, this victory could provide the momentum United need to push forward.
Rasmus Hojlund was impressive for the home side.
Opinion amongst United's support on Hojlund has fluctuated. United have repeatedly stressed the £72m fee was spent on a player they felt could develop into a top striker.
Hojlund's first goal against the Norwegian side was exceptional. He skillfully controlled Mazraoui's cross and quickly adjusted his body position to take the shot before the ball hit the ground. His celebration was inspired by the recently released Gladiator film, but he wasn't done yet. The former Atalanta forward scored his second goal in a more conventional manner, sliding in to convert Ugarte's cross from close range.
