FOOTBALL
EPL: Toothless United held by Newcastle
Manchester United fans were hoping to see a rejuvenated Red Devils side following a lengthy covid-induced break.
But, Ralph Rangnick’s men looked rusty in action and would deem themselves lucky to come back with a point from St. James Park.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe had covid concerns as well, since he only had eight substitute players at his disposal, including two goalkeepers.
But, he had his strongest starting XI available, which gave United a run for their money.
The hosts started on the front foot and reaped their reward soon.
Defensive error costs United
Allan Saint-Maximin, who was perhaps determined to prove his worth following some vague criticisms from his manager, had no trouble shrugging off three red shirts, including that of Harry Maguire’s, to fire the ball into the net.
Raphael Varane would not be keen to watch the replay of that goal, as the move started when he poorly lost possession to Sean Longstaff and the 24-year-old released Maximin to wreak havoc.
Manchester United saw a lot of the ball, but they rarely threatened the Newcastle backline.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Mason Greenwood, and Marcus Rashford cut three alienated figures throughout the first half, devoid of any chemistry whatsoever.
Jonjo Shelvey made a fantastic run penetrating the midfield and launched a fantastic strike towards the United goal.
David de Gea, who would make a few more crucial saves in the night appearing as United’s saving grace, had to make sure the ball stayed out of the post and the visitor’s deficit remained the same.
Rangnick stormed down the tunnel after the first half whistle, knowing he needed to make some changes to bore through the resolute United defence.
Apart from Saint-Maximin, Joelington stole the show for the Magpies in the first half as the Brazilian lined up as a midfielder alongside Shelvey, rather than leading the line.
With the defensive cover of Shelvey, Joelington patrolled the midfield with authority, cutting down opposition passing lanes, and probing the United defence with splitting passes.
Rangnick makes changes
Edinson Cavani and Jadon Sancho entered the fray to change the dynamics of the game, and they did make United a bit more formidable going forward.
Cavani squandered two good chances as he couldn’t keep his efforts on target from a Bruno Fernandes cross and a Sancho cutback.
Ronaldo, who was lucky to stay on the pitch after recklessly kicking Ryan Fraser without the ball, volleyed an effort wide, summing up a night that will not go down to his archive of countless heroics.
On the other end of the pitch, Saint-Maximin, who was now the centrepiece of the Newcastle attack as Callum Wilson limped off with an ankle injury, shot straight at De Gea after getting the ball in a promising position from Emil Krafth.
Cavani strikes
That miss proved costly, as Cavani made amends for his earlier misses and drew the scores level.
The onrushing Uruguayan met Diogo Dalot’s cross with a powerful header. Martin Dubravka managed to keep out the first attempt, but he had no answer for the rebound.
De Gea brilliantly denied Miguel Almiron in the later stages of the game and heaved a sigh of relief watching Jacob Murphy’s shot hit the post.
The draw leaves Newcastle 19th on the table, but with a favourable run of fixtures coming, last night’s performance will give them renewed hope of escaping relegation.
Man United are seventh in the point table, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal.
FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.
Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.
The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!
FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.
The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.
FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.
FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!
Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.
Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.
The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.
Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.
Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.
This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.
Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.
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