The Premier League clash between Crystal Palace and Manchester United is always a highly anticipated fixture. This season, the match at Selhurst Park on September 21, 2024, was no exception. Both teams came into the game with different objectives but shared the same determination to secure three crucial points.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, aimed to improve their standing in the league. The Eagles had a challenging start to the season, sitting in the lower half of the table. Their fans hoped for a strong performance against a formidable opponent like Manchester United.
On the other hand, Manchester United, under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, sought to maintain their momentum. The Red Devils had shown flashes of brilliance in their recent matches, and a win against Crystal Palace would bolster their position in the top half of the table.
First Half: A Tactical Battle
The match kicked off with both teams displaying tactical discipline. Crystal Palace focused on a solid defensive setup, aiming to frustrate Manchester United’s attacking prowess. The first half saw limited clear-cut chances, with both goalkeepers making crucial saves to keep the scoreline level.
Manchester United’s midfield, led by Bruno Fernandes, tried to break down Palace’s defense with intricate passing and movement. However, the Eagles’ backline, marshaled by Marc Guéhi, stood firm. The first half ended goalless, with both teams heading into the break knowing that a moment of brilliance could decide the game.
Second Half: Intensity and Drama
The second half began with increased intensity. Manchester United pushed forward, seeking to break the deadlock. Their efforts nearly paid off when Marcus Rashford’s shot was brilliantly saved by Palace’s goalkeeper, Dean Henderson. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eberechi Eze causing problems for United’s defense.
As the game progressed, both managers made tactical substitutions to inject fresh energy into their teams. Manchester United introduced Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford, hoping their pace and creativity would unlock Palace’s defense. Crystal Palace responded by bringing on Jeffrey Schlupp to add more attacking threat.
Erik ten Hag Reactions
Erik ten Hag said, “The performance is good, but for a performance, you don’t get points. You have to score a goal. Of course, I am quite disappointed when you are so dominant in a game. We played some very good football but also did some very good pressing. You are so dictating in a game but you don’t score.
On whether hitting the bar twice was bad luck: “In that action, absolutely. The finish from Garnacho, nothing wrong with this. Then in the rebound, Bruno, nothing wrong with this. It’s a difficult ball to take. That is bad luck.
“Absolutely, but I think the whole team was performing well.
Oliver Glasner Reactions
Oliver Glasner On Crystal Palace’s chances: “Football is relentless, as we all know and they got their moment in the 44th minute. We make one mistake and it was a big chance but also, Onana played a brilliant game. That was a good save but also, especially the one in the second half.
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner speaking to Sky Sports: “In the first half Dean Henderson kept us alive and kept us in the game. At the end of the half we had the chance from Eberechi and then in the second half we were much, much better. In the first half we needed a great goalkeeper and fortunately we had one today.
“In the second half we were more organised, we played with more courage and we had two great situations to win the game. In that second half it was more like a Crystal Palace team and that is what we need to be competitive against a team like Manchester United.”
On what needed to change at half time: “Everything. I have never seen my Crystal Palce team play like we did in the first half, with no energy, no confidence, both in and out of possession, in set plays etcetera.
“That shows again the spirit we have to make adjustments at half time, switch to a 3-5-2 to close the centre, and then we controlled the game and had our chances in their box. Even when we won the ball we were more direct, played forward more in the second half.”
Post-Match Analysis
The draw left Crystal Palace in a precarious position in the league table, but their defensive solidity against a top team like Manchester United was a positive takeaway. For Manchester United, the result was a missed opportunity to climb higher in the standings.
In conclusion, the Crystal Palace vs Manchester United match was a thrilling encounter that highlighted the competitive spirit of the Premier League. Fans of both teams will look forward to the next meeting, hoping for more excitement and, perhaps, a decisive result.
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