Joao Pedro scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner to secure a 1-0 victory for Brighton over Manchester United, maintaining their perfect start to the 2024-25 season. The result left Erik ten Hag and his Red Devils disappointed after they failed to capitalize on their chances at the Amex Stadium.
United had a goal from Alejandro Garnacho disallowed for offside, and Pedro made the most of a late cross to clinch the win. Danny Welbeck had initially given Brighton the lead in the 32nd minute. Although Amad Diallo equalized for United at the hour mark, they were unable to mount a successful comeback.
Brighton’s new manager, Fabian Hurzeler, enjoyed a successful home debut, while Welbeck continued his impressive performances against his former club. Despite some promising moments from Diallo, United struggled to turn the tide.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Ten Hag expressed his frustration: “Very disappointed. Especially when you have control over long parts of the game and we are doing so well in possession. Two unnecessary goals, very avoidable.”
When asked if the goals conceded were preventable, Ten Hag replied, “Yeah. That is our feeling. We conceded two soft goals when we should have done better as a team. We need to be aligned in such moments, know our roles, and protect our goal.”
Despite the loss, Ten Hag noted some positives: “We had possession, created chances, and showed resilience. We thought we had scored a winner, but it was ruled out due to Joshua Zirkzee’s touch just before the line. It was a pity and disappointing, but I can take positives from the performance.”
On the decision to bring on Joshua Zirkzee for Mason Mount at halftime, Ten Hag explained: “Mount had an issue, so we took him out. Joshua also had a good impact on the game.”
He added: “Before halftime, we had three or four good opportunities and should have been ahead. You cannot afford to drop points. Football is about details, and we need to do better in those situations.”
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