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Brentford’s Goal Triggered Manchester United's Comeback



Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed his delight after his team came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford, describing the win as both entertaining and vital for building team confidence. United’s response to a controversial Brentford goal spurred a determined second-half performance, sealing a much-needed win for the Red Devils after a tough spell.



Speaking after the match to BBC’s Match of the Day, Ten Hag emphasised the importance of the result, saying: "We are happy to win the game. At United, you have to win games but also to bring entertainment. I think for everyone it was an enjoyable afternoon. Especially the way it happened, when you concede an unfair goal."


Brentford’s Controversial Opener

The key talking point in the first half was Brentford’s goal, which came just before halftime, sparking frustration in the United camp. Brentford took advantage of a moment when United’s Matthijs de Ligt was taken off the pitch for treatment following a head injury. The decision to temporarily remove one of United’s best aerial defenders during a corner proved costly, as Ethan Pinnock headed Brentford into the lead.

Ten Hag expressed his frustration over the referee’s decision to pull de Ligt off at such a crucial moment, explaining: "We didn't know why the referee brought one of our players in a critical moment off the pitch. It was dry blood—it happened before.


"Then in a critical moment on a corner from them—which is their strength—they bring one of our best headers off and then Brentford take benefit from it. Of course, then you are frustrated."



United’s Fiery Response

The manager admitted that the frustration from conceding Brentford's goal served as a motivating force for his team in the second half. “Everyone was angry. We took that as fuel. We showed with a quick start in the second half that we wanted to put things right, and we did with two beautiful goals,” said Ten Hag.



United came out with renewed energy and purpose after the break, with Alejandro Garnacho scoring the equaliser just two minutes into the second half. The goal ended United’s 316-minute Premier League goal drought. Soon after, Rasmus Højlund netted the winner in the 62nd minute, completing the comeback and lifting spirits in a match that was crucial for Ten Hag’s future.

Adjustments in the Second Half

Ten Hag also highlighted the tactical tweaks that helped United regain control of the game in the second half. "There are always some slight changes. We needed to fill the pockets better. Then you have a better structure to create chances but also to counter-press so we could control games," he said.



While United’s first-half performance had its bright moments, the transformation after the break was evident. "In the second half, it changes when you score and everyone is happy. You see the motivation and confidence is growing. This is what this team needs. It was difficult for us to score in the last weeks," Ten Hag added.

Looking Ahead Amid Speculation

Amid mounting speculation about his future as United's manager, Ten Hag remained focused on the task at hand, downplaying the external noise surrounding his job. "My focus is only on this. What everyone is writing is coming off my shoulders. I can deal with this. The players only have to think about the team performance, to have the right work ethic, to put everything in that they have."



With the win, United eased some of the pressure on Ten Hag as they prepare for an important Europa League clash against Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce. Ten Hag’s belief in his squad’s ability to rise above recent struggles was clear: "I know they are brilliant players. If you are determined, then we will score goals and bring in wins. That's what everyone expects."



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