- Manchester United hosted Wolves at Old Trafford in their first match of the Premier League season
- Wolves were equally impressive in the match, coming close to scoring on several occasions
- Raphael Varane scored the winner to get the season running for United
Manchester United narrowly avoided a late scare from VAR, securing a victory against an impressive Wolves team at Old Trafford in the Premier League opener. Raphael Varane’s second-half goal, a close-range header, proved decisive in a match where Erik Ten Hag’s team struggled to dominate. The 1-0 win was hard-fought and somewhat fortunate for United.
As the game neared its end, Wolves had a chance to equalize through a potential penalty after goalkeeper Andre Onana appeared to collide with Sasa Kalajdzic. However, referee Simon Hooper dismissed the penalty appeals, and VAR upheld his decision, leaving Wolves frustrated.
The performance from Wolves came as a surprise, given the recent upheaval in their managerial ranks. Despite Julen Lopetegui’s departure just before the season started, interim manager Gary O’Neil led his team in a well-executed counter-attacking style that put Manchester United on the back foot for most of the match. Although they created several opportunities, Wolves struggled to capitalize on them, with Matheus Cunha hitting the post in the second half.
Manchester United players Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane celebrate after the latter scored the winner against Wolves in the Premier League on August 14 2023. | PHOTO: Sky Sports |
Manchester United was aware that their performance was not up to par, but they managed to secure the victory. This win allowed them to join Manchester City and Arsenal in collecting maximum points during the opening weekend of the Premier League.
READ: Inside Manchester United and Adidas new partnership
Outside the stadium, there was a minor protest from United fans against the Glazer ownership and the club’s prolonged sale process. However, planned demonstrations regarding Mason Greenwood’s potential return to the squad were limited, with his status still uncertain due to an ongoing consultation phase following an internal investigation.
Despite off-field concerns, Ten Hag’s team had an encouraging pre-season. Nonetheless, their first-half performance didn’t reflect their preparation, as Wolves surprisingly outperformed them in the initial 45 minutes. Wolves’ quick-paced counter-attacks created promising opportunities, with Cunha and Sarabia missing chances to take the lead.
United came to life towards the end of the first half, with shouts for a penalty after Marcus Rashford’s header struck Nelson Semedo’s arm. Wolves regained their counter-attacking rhythm after halftime, but they couldn’t find the net. Cunha’s efforts were particularly threatening, but his shots either missed or were saved by Onana.
The breakthrough arrived in the 76th minute when Bruno Fernandes set up Aaron Wan-Bissaka, whose cross found Varane for the decisive header. Despite Wolves’ late attempts to level the score, Fabio Silva was denied by Onana’s saves, and Luke Shaw’s crucial block secured United’s victory.
In the closing moments, Wolves believed they deserved a penalty when Onana’s positioning seemed suspect, but both the referee and VAR dismissed their appeals.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login