After a frustrating display of missed chances, Manchester United were left to regret their missed opportunities in a 0-0 draw away at Crystal Palace, bringing an end to their two-match winning streak. United started the match strongly, creating a number of chances early on.
Both Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes were unlucky, each hitting the crossbar in the first half. Despite their dominance, United couldn’t find a way through, going into halftime without a goal, even though they seemed to have ample opportunities to take the lead.
The game remained closely contested, with both sides creating chances. The second half saw a standout moment from goalkeeper Andre Onana, who pulled off an incredible double save, keeping his team in the game and maintaining the scoreline at 0-0. Onana’s confidence radiated throughout the match, particularly during that critical moment, helping United avoid what could have been a costly goal.
In terms of individual performances, there were several notable displays. Mazraoui, rated 7.5, has continued his impressive rise at Old Trafford, quickly becoming a reliable figure in defense. His ability to support both in attack and defense with minimal fuss has earned him praise.
Matthijs de Ligt, who was rated a 7, also put in a solid display, showing leadership in defense and posing a threat in the air during set pieces. His game-by-game improvement has been remarkable and has unsettled the opposition.
Lisandro Martinez had a decent game as well, rated 7, contributing defensively and nearly scoring when he had a chance in the box, only to be denied by Dean Henderson. Diogo Dalot, rated 8, was exceptional once again in his inverted full-back role. His consistent performances in this unique position have made him one of Ten Hag’s standout successes this season.
In midfield, Christian Eriksen, rated 7, did his job efficiently, although his selection raised some eyebrows against the more physical Palace side. Still, he moved the ball forward well and added quality to United’s set pieces. Kobbie Mainoo, rated 6.5, showed his quality when United were on top but wasn’t as influential when the game became more balanced.
Up front, Bruno Fernandes had moments of brilliance, including creating a great chance for Zirkzee and Garnacho, but his overall play was inconsistent, earning him a rating of 6.5. Amad, rated 7, was lively and caused problems for Palace’s defense with his movement and dribbling. Garnacho, rated 6.5, had several good chances but couldn’t finish them, despite getting into promising positions.
Substitutes like Marcus Rashford, Manuel Ugarte, and Rasmus Hojlund couldn’t make a significant impact, with Rashford struggling to replicate his midweek form on the left wing. Ugarte, while eager, gave away cheap fouls, and Hojlund, returning from injury, showed some rust but added more directness and threat in attack than Zirkzee.
In the end, despite the promising signs, United were left to lament their missed opportunities, and Erik ten Hag could only reflect on the positives in a game where his side had the chances to win but ultimately fell short.
