Man Utd 1-3 Brighton: Seagulls Stun Red Devils at Old Trafford

• Manchester United suffer their sixth home defeat of the season.
• Andre Onana’s blunder gifts Brighton a third goal.
• Bruno Fernandes scores from the spot for United.

Manchester United endured another frustrating evening at Old Trafford, falling 3-1 to a determined Brighton & Hove Albion side. Despite a promising first half that saw Bruno Fernandes convert a penalty, the Red Devils unraveled in the second half, conceding twice to a relentless Brighton attack.

How the Game Unfolded

First Half:
Brighton struck early, with Yankuba Minteh tapping in from Kaoru Mitoma’s unselfish assist after Carlos Baleba launched a perfect long ball over the top.

United responded positively, creating chances through Amad Diallo and Diogo Dalot down the wings. After two penalty claims were waved away, United were finally awarded a spot-kick when Baleba dragged Joshua Zirkzee down. Fernandes confidently dispatched the penalty to level the score.

Second Half:
Brighton regained the lead early in the second half. A chaotic sequence in the box saw Joao Pedro fire home, but VAR ruled out the goal for a foul by Jan Paul van Hecke on Dalot.

Brighton’s persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Mitoma stretched to tap in Minteh’s cross at the back post.

The game was effectively sealed when United goalkeeper Andre Onana spilled a routine cross into the path of Georginio Rutter, who couldn’t believe his luck as he scored Brighton’s third goal.

Talking Points

Lack of Composure Costs United

United started brightly and showed resilience after falling behind early, but they struggled to maintain composure as Brighton took control in the second half. The team’s inability to respond after Mitoma’s second goal and Onana’s error highlighted deeper issues with focus and mentality.

Manager Ruben Amorim must address these lapses quickly to halt the Red Devils’ slide.

Amad Diallo Shines Despite the Loss

Playing as an attacking midfielder, Amad Diallo impressed with his work rate and creativity. His high press led to the penalty, and he showed defensive awareness by supporting his full-back.

In attack, Amad looked lively and was United’s most likely source of a goal from open play. His performance was a rare bright spot in a dismal outing for United.

Another Onana Howler

Onana’s mistake for Brighton’s third goal proved costly. The routine cross should have been an easy catch, but the goalkeeper inexplicably spilled it into Rutter’s path.

This error is part of a worrying trend for Onana, whose inconsistency continues to undermine United’s defense. A new goalkeeper may soon top Amorim’s transfer wishlist.

Baleba’s Mixed Performance

Carlos Baleba showed flashes of brilliance with his passing, including the assist for Brighton’s opener. However, his rash decision to foul Zirkzee and concede the penalty underscored his need for greater composure.

Baleba’s ability to recover possession and control the midfield in the second half demonstrated his potential, but he must refine his decision-making to take his game to the next level.

Conclusion

This defeat leaves Manchester United with serious questions about their form and mentality. Brighton, meanwhile, showcased resilience and efficiency, continuing their impressive season.

Next Up:

• Manchester United will aim to bounce back in their next fixture as the pressure mounts on Ruben Amorim.
• Brighton will look to maintain their momentum as they push for a strong finish in the Premier League.