Sports
Højlund’s Brace Leads United To 3-2 Victory Over Bodø/Glimt
Manchester United secured a 3-2 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League, marking Ruben Amorim’s first win as head coach. Rasmus Højlund played a pivotal role in the comeback, scoring twice to give United the three points at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Amorim, who took charge of the team recently, will feel encouraged by the win but understands that the road ahead will involve some challenges.
Højlund’s performance was central to United’s success. The Danish striker scored two well-executed goals, one just before halftime after United had initially taken the lead through Alejandro Garnacho but then conceded twice in quick succession. Højlund’s first goal, a composed volley under pressure, was particularly impressive. Amorim had expressed concerns before the match about United’s struggle to score this season, and Højlund’s clinical finishing will be a boost in that regard.
Amorim also highlighted how Højlund has adapted well to his tactical system, noting that the striker has become an important link in transition play. “He has to improve more because sometimes he takes too many touches when he holds the ball, but he is very important for us,” Amorim said after the game. “He was aggressive in the box, and he is a quality player.” Amorim also praised the team for improving since his first game, though he admitted there was still much room for growth.
The match also provided a glimpse of the work Amorim has ahead of him. While the win was important, United’s defensive vulnerabilities were once again exposed, as they conceded two goals to Bodø/Glimt in just four minutes. Amorim’s frustration was evident on the touchline as he urged his players to stay focused and minimize mistakes. He acknowledged the team’s defensive frailty and missed chances, with Garnacho and Marcus Rashford failing to seal the game late on.
Amorim expressed mixed feelings about the performance, saying, “We improved different things since the last game,” while admitting there are still areas to work on, especially in defensive transitions. He also acknowledged the team’s tendency to tire towards the end of matches. “It’s a work in progress, and it’s going to take time,” he said, reinforcing his belief that improvement will come with time and consistency.
The Portuguese coach also reflected on the warm reception he received from the Old Trafford crowd, which he called “special.” Despite the challenges, Amorim felt a strong connection with the fans. “I feel I am not alone now. I am one of them and I hope not to disappoint them,” he added. With a busy fixture schedule ahead, including a Premier League match against Everton, Amorim knows there is little time for rest but is determined to continue working toward creating a better Manchester United.
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