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Manchester United won an entertaining Europa League clash 3-2 against Bodo/Glimt in Ruben Amorim’s first home game at Old Trafford on Thursday.
The hosts took another early lead, this time through Alejandro Garnacho after 50 seconds, before the visitors stunned the United faithful with two goals in four minutes to silence them.
But the front three held on and Rasmus Hojlund eventually scored a fine brace to give the Red Devils back-to-back wins in the competition for the first time this season.
The attacking trio of Hojlund, Garnacho and Mason Mount fit together nicely, but the Portuguese coach will not be too happy with his wing-backs.
Mazraoui was very smart
Despite conceding twice on the night, Moroccan Noussair Mazraoui put in another fantastic performance against the Norwegian side, making few mistakes.
The signing of Erik Ten Hag hasn’t had much success, but the former Bayern Munich player looks like a steal for just €15 million. He also seemed like a perfect fit for everything Amorim was trying to build.
Noussair Mazraoui’s numbers game vs. Bodø/Glimt:
139 total touches
100% intersection accuracy
95% passing accuracy
Win 86% of duels
Number 21 passes to the final third
8 ball recoveries
5 tackle attempts
Completed 5 tackles
3 chances were created
3 clearances10/10 every game… 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lQslCVzuc7
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) November 28, 2024
The 27-year-old is so intelligent that he looks like he can play anywhere on the pitch. He knew exactly when to press and when to pull back, and his ability on the ball was unrivaled.
He touched the ball 139 times and finished the game with an impressive 95% passing accuracy, with 114 of his 120 pass attempts on target.
A whopping 21 passes went into the final third. One of them found the Dane in the box, who calmly scored the crucial equalizer.
Fits the Amorim system like a glove
Mazraoui created a big chance by making three key passes. His solo cross attempt was successful and three of his five long balls found a team-mate.
Defensively he was equally strong and despite Anthony looking shaky at times, the Morocco international gave him plenty of cover and kept danger away at every possible opportunity.
The right centre-back made three clearances, one interception and five tackles. He also won six of his seven ground duel attempts. sofa score).
Amorim couldn’t ask for more from Mazraoui, and with Leny Yoro yet to regain full health, he will likely continue to play in this position for some time.
Featured Image Gareth Copley via Getty Images
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