Manchester United‘s good run under Michael Carrick continued, but it had its ups and downs, including a major moment that changed the course of the match.
Crystal Palace stunned the crowd at Old Trafford just four minutes in when Maxence Lacroix scored from Brennan Johnson’s corner with a glancing header.
This was the earliest United had conceded in the league this season, leading to a first half that felt disjointed, as if United were struggling to find their rhythm.
Palace showed confidence and organization, pressing effectively and creating chances through Daniel Muñoz and Ismaïla Sarr.
United seemed to fight back but rarely threatened, with Dean Henderson having little to do early on. When they began to apply some pressure, it resulted in near-misses rather than scoring chances.
The second half, however, was a different affair. United increased their intensity, pressing Palace back. The defining moment came 10 minutes after the break.
Matheus Cunha broke into the box, with Lacroix holding on as he surged forward.
The initial contact looked to be outside, but as Cunha entered the box, he fell. Referee Chris Kavanagh initially hesitated but ultimately pointed to the spot after reviewing the video.
Upon returning, he confirmed a penalty for United and handed Lacroix a red card for denying a clear goalscoring chance.
Bruno Fernandes confidently converted the penalty in the 57th minute, bringing United level and igniting the crowd. From that point on, the game shifted in United’s favor.
Just eight minutes later, Fernandes provided a well-placed cross that Benjamin Sesko headed in, marking his first start under Carrick with a goal.
United, now energized, pushed for a third goal.
Henderson made key saves to keep Palace in the game, including stops from Casemiro and Amad Diallo. However, Palace struggled to regain their earlier composure after going down to ten men.
They attempted to find an equalizer, but United managed the closing stages effectively, securing three points.
This victory extends United’s unbeaten league run to 11 matches and moves them up to third in the table on goal difference.
For Crystal Palace, it was a frustrating match filled with early promise, one controversial decision, and the familiar feeling of a match slipping away at Old Trafford.
In addition to the three points, here are five takeaways from the victory.
1) Michael Carrick’s Manchester United shows resilience
After a slow first half, United returned with more energy and urgency after halftime. There was a clear shift in tempo, showing their determination to secure the win.
Once momentum shifted, they played like a team that believes they can win at Old Trafford.
This is not just a one-time occurrence. Carrick’s pattern has been to regain control after halftime, allowing the team to turn games around with the crowd’s support.
2) Bruno Fernandes remains vital, but he shares the load
Fernandes was instrumental in both the equalizer and the winner. His ability to make critical plays allows him to lead the team without carrying the entire burden alone.
With support from Cunha and Mbeumo, among others, Fernandes has more options and can work effectively as a team.
3) Benjamin Sesko solidifies his position
Sesko, who scored the winner, justified his first start under Carrick. His consistent scoring and aerial threat provide United with a strong focal point on offense.
His presence allows United to go direct when needed and maintain pressure on opponents.
He’s not just finishing plays but is also influencing how teams defend against United.
4) The red card marked a turning point, but Palace has valid concerns
Oliver Glasner may feel aggrieved. The initial contact seemed outside the box, and criticisms of “Old Trafford bias” may emerge.
However, Lacroix’s continued hold on Cunha warranted the penalty and red card as determined by VAR and the referee’s judgment.
Cunha may face backlash for going down, yet it was Lacroix’s actions that led to that situation.
United still had to capitalize, and they did just that.
5) Challenges remain, but the team’s performance is encouraging
Off the pitch, some fans expressed dissatisfaction with ownership, highlighting ongoing concerns.
The atmosphere around the club can be complex, despite recent positive results.
On the field, the record speaks for itself, with six wins and a draw in seven matches under Carrick. The expectation for Champions League qualification is now a legitimate goal, not merely a dream.
This run has shifted pressure into momentum, which is valuable for the club.