Under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has shown significant improvement, displaying a slick style of play. However, their recent performance deserves no more than a five out of ten rating. Although André Onana initially appeared to be the upgrade in goal that the manager desired, Joselu’s acrobatic strike in the final moments of the match secured a victory for Real Madrid.
It was Onana’s mistake, a loose header from the midfield, that allowed Real Madrid to initiate their attack. The ball was worked down the right side, where Lucas Vázquez delivered a perfect cross for Joselu to execute an impressive bicycle kick, leaving Onana helpless and defeated at his near post.
The arrival of Onana was intended to revolutionize Manchester United’s build-up play, but his debut showcased a different narrative. In the sixth minute, Jude Bellingham capitalized on Antonio Rüdiger’s pass and chipped the ball beyond Onana, claiming the first goal for Real Madrid. Earlier in the match, Casemiro collided with Rodrygo, resulting in a collision with young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo, unaware of the Brazilian’s presence, suffered a leg injury and had to be substituted.
Christian Eriksen’s introduction into the game provided Real Madrid with continued opportunities to exploit Manchester United’s defense. Bellingham constantly sought to make runs from behind the number ten position, causing headaches for Ten Hag’s team. Vinícius Júnior orchestrated a dangerous attack, but his shot was thwarted by Onana’s exceptional save.
Ten Hag, renowned for his meticulous in-game strategies, must have been concerned with his team’s vulnerability to counterattacks and addressed it during halftime.
Mason Mount, who had an underwhelming performance in the previous match against Arsenal, once again failed to impress. His missed close-range chance, wayward pass, and altercation with Bellingham after a tackle from Lisandro Martínez were all disappointing moments. Alejandro Garnacho also missed an opportunity from close range, along with Marcus Rashford and Casemiro, who couldn’t find the target.
Onana, described in the UEFA technical report as more of a holding midfielder than a sweeper-keeper, exhibited tidiness and character in his play. He even had the audacity to criticize Martinez for a poor clearance.
For the third match of their tour, Ten Hag fielded a nearly full-strength XI at the NRG Stadium. Surprisingly, there were no changes made during halftime. Although there were glimpses of promise when Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes combined effectively down the left flank, the momentum quickly vanished when Ten Hag substituted every outfield player except for Fernandes.
One of the new additions, Antony, moved infield from the right side and attempted a left-footed strike, but the ball sailed over the crossbar. Victor Lindelof, another substitute, awkwardly attempted to prevent a cross from reaching Joselu, while Onana produced yet another impressive save.
Joselu, formerly of Stoke City and Newcastle United, had two more chances before netting his memorable first goal for Real Madrid. Diogo Dalot cleared his shot off the line, and moments later, Onana replicated the feat. Finally, Joselu sealed the match with a spectacular volley, ensuring a disappointing outing for Manchester United and a match that Ten Hag would rather forget.
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