(foto: Screenshot)
Rasmus Hojlund's double secured Manchester United's 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt in a chaotic Europa League clash, marking Ruben Amorim's first home victory at Old Trafford.
Manchester United edged a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League, giving new manager Ruben Amorim his first win at Old Trafford. The match saw Rasmus Hojlund score twice, sealing a hard-fought victory in a rollercoaster encounter.
The game started with a bang as Alejandro Garnacho capitalized on a defensive error by Bodo/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin, poking home within the opening minute. However, Bodo/Glimt hit back, with Hakon Evjen equalizing after a fine move and Philip Zinckernagel giving the Norwegian side a surprising lead after exploiting United's defensive frailties.
Just before halftime, Hojlund pulled United level with a superb strike, and early in the second half, he tapped in what proved to be the winner following a clever assist from Bruno Fernandes.
Ruben Amorim, managing his first home game, made six changes from the team that drew with Ipswich last weekend. Notably, Tyrell Malacia returned to the lineup for the first time since the 2022/23 season finale. Bodo/Glimt, sitting atop the Norwegian league, rotated their squad ahead of a crucial domestic fixture.
Amorim received a raucous welcome at Old Trafford, with fans showing high expectations for the former Sporting Lisbon coach. Despite an early lead, United's defense showed vulnerabilities, conceding twice in quick succession to a spirited Bodo/Glimt side. However, tactical adjustments, including switching between a back three and a back four, helped United regain control in the second half.
Hojlund’s second goal in the 50th minute proved decisive, but the match ended nervously as Andre Onana made crucial saves, including a late stop from a Patrick Berg free-kick. Despite missed chances, United held on to secure their second win in the Europa League’s new-format group stage, where they currently sit 12th with two wins and three draws.
Match Details:
Europa League, Group Stage
Manchester United 3:2 Bodo/Glimt
1' Garnacho, 44' Hojlund, 50' Hojlund – 19' Evjen, 23' Zinckernagel
Manchester United Lineup: Onana, Malacia (45' Dalot), Martinez, Varane, Mazraoui, Casemiro, Mount, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund, Rashford. Coach: Ruben Amorim.
Bodo/Glimt Lineup: Haikin, Gundersen, Moe, Lode, Sampsted, Fet, Berg, Brunstad, Zinckernagel, Evjen, Pellegrino. Coach: Kjetil Knutsen.
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Referee: Carlos del Cerro Grande (Spain)