Bournemouth delivered a stunning 3-0 victory over a woeful Manchester United side at Old Trafford on Sunday, adding to the Red Devils’ ongoing struggles under Ruben Amorim. Goals from Dean Huijsen, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo ensured Bournemouth left with all three points and another clean sheet in what was a dominant performance.
Match Summary
First Half:
- Bournemouth opened the scoring in the 17th minute via Dean Huijsen, who headed home a perfectly delivered free kick from Ryan Christie.
- Manchester United struggled to break down a disciplined Bournemouth defense, with few clear-cut chances created.
Second Half:
- Justin Kluivert converted a penalty in the 60th minute after Noussair Mazraoui fouled him in the box.
- Two minutes later, Antoine Semenyo capped off a slick move down the left flank to make it 3-0.
- Alejandro Garnacho had the best chance for United to pull one back but was denied by Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Bournemouth’s defensive organization and clinical finishing ensured they secured a deserved win, leaving United searching for answers.
Player Ratings
Manchester United (3-4-2-1)
- Andre Onana (4.8/10): Poor on set pieces and struggled with decision-making, particularly on Bournemouth’s first goal.
- Noussair Mazraoui (6.2/10): Conceded a penalty and struggled to handle Bournemouth’s pace on the flanks.
- Harry Maguire (6.3/10): Showed effort but lacked the sharpness needed to lead the defense effectively.
- Lisandro Martinez (7.6/10): United’s best defender on the day, making crucial blocks and clearances.
- Diogo Dalot (6.8/10): Worked hard up and down the right flank but lacked precision in his final delivery.
- Manuel Ugarte (6.9/10): Decent in breaking up play but failed to impose himself going forward.
- Kobbie Mainoo (7.3/10): Showed promise in midfield with his energy and passing but lacked support.
- Tyrell Malacia (5.9/10): Struggled defensively and was replaced at halftime after an ineffective showing.
- Amad Diallo (7.3/10): Looked lively and created some openings but lacked end product.
- Joshua Zirkzee (6.0/10): Isolated for much of the game and struggled to make an impact.
- Bruno Fernandes (7.8/10): United’s brightest spark, trying to create chances and drive the team forward.
Substitutes:
- Leny Yoro (6.3/10): Solid after coming on but didn’t change the game.
- Rasmus Hojlund (6.1/10): Worked hard but failed to find meaningful chances.
- Alejandro Garnacho (7.1/10): Brought energy off the bench and came close to scoring but was denied by Kepa.
Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
- Kepa Arrizabalaga (8.1/10): Made crucial saves, including a key stop against Garnacho, to keep a clean sheet.
- Adam Smith (6.7/10): Steady defensively and supported the attack when needed.
- Illia Zabarnyi (7.5/10): Commanding in defense, snuffing out United’s rare attacking threats.
- Dean Huijsen (8.2/10): Scored the opener and defended brilliantly throughout.
- Milos Kerkez (7.1/10): Solid on the left flank, contributing defensively and offensively.
- Tyler Adams (7.5/10): Controlled the midfield with his defensive work rate and passing.
- Ryan Christie (8.7/10): The standout player with a perfect assist and excellent work in midfield.
- Antoine Semenyo (7.8/10): Took his goal well and caused problems for United’s defense with his movement.
- Justin Kluivert (7.6/10): Calmly converted his penalty and was a constant threat in the final third.
- Dango Ouatarra (7.9/10): Energetic and creative on the left wing, contributing to Bournemouth’s attacking play.
- Evanilson (6.9/10): Worked hard up front but wasn’t heavily involved in the scoring.
Substitutes:
- Lewis Cook (6.3/10): Helped shore up the midfield after coming on.
- Enes Unal (5.8/10): Struggled to make an impact in his brief cameo.
- Philip Billing (6.7/10): Added physicality in the closing stages.
- James Hill (6.1/10): Provided defensive reinforcement late on.
- David Brooks (5.9/10): Had little time to influence the game.
Key Takeaways
- United’s Defensive Woes: Manchester United’s inability to defend set pieces and maintain structure cost them dearly once again.
- Bournemouth’s Clinical Edge: The Cherries took their chances brilliantly, with Christie pulling the strings in midfield.
- Player of the Match: Ryan Christie shone for Bournemouth, orchestrating the midfield and delivering a perfect assist for the opener.
Conclusion
Bournemouth’s victory highlights the ongoing struggles at Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils remain stagnant in the Premier League table, while the Cherries continue their impressive season, climbing further up the standings. Both teams will look to regroup over the festive period as the season intensifies.
Next Matches:
- Man Utd: Host Ipswich Town on December 27.
- Bournemouth: Travel to Brighton on December 28.
