Man United’s Thrilling Comeback Marks Rasmus Hojlund’s Premier League Debut Goal

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The Old Trafford debut of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era witnessed a stellar start as Manchester United secured a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Aston Villa on Boxing Day.

While United’s defense displayed comical frailties, conceding two goals from set-pieces in the first half, they rebounded impressively, dominating the game thereafter. The Red Devils delivered an entertaining performance, catching the attention of INEOS representative Sir Dave Brailsford in the stands.

Alejandro Garnacho, who had an earlier goal disallowed for offside, scored twice in the second half, and Rasmus Hojlund finally notched his eagerly awaited first league goal to secure a dramatic victory.

Villa had a slightly better start, and Christian Eriksen had the first notable attempt with a long-range shot ten minutes into the game, easily handled by Emiliano Martinez.

In the 22nd minute, Villa took an unusual lead. John McGinn’s free kick navigated through a crowded six-yard box and found the back of Andre Onana’s net.

Moments later, poor defending during a corner allowed Clement Lenglet a free header, and Leander Dendoncker stabbed the ball past Onana for Villa’s second goal, prompting boos from the home crowd.

United responded energetically, with Marcus Rashford testing Martinez twice, though without truly challenging the Villa goalkeeper before halftime. Despite United’s dominance in the first half, defensive lapses continued to cost them.

Three minutes into the second half, United believed they had scored, but a VAR check revealed that Alejandro Garnacho mistimed his run, nullifying the goal. However, Garnacho made amends shortly after, staying onside to tap in a cross from Rashford.

Garnacho secured his brace 20 minutes from the end, capitalizing on a loose ball with a shot that took a significant deflection off Diego Carlos.

Rasmus Hojlund completed the comeback nine minutes from full-time, ending his 1,026-minute goal drought in the Premier League with a smart finish after penalty box chaos, securing a well-deserved three points for United.

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