Man united vs crystal palace: United’s Comeback Secures Vital Win

By Vikram Nair / 01.03.2026

United found themselves trailing within the first four minutes as Lacroix outmuscled Leny Yoro to head the ball into the net from a corner. Ismaila Sarr nearly doubled the lead when he shot directly at Senne Lammens, with Palace controlling the early moments of the match. In fact, United struggled to create any significant chances until the last 10 minutes of the first half, as both Sesko and Casemiro squandered headed opportunities, while Dean Henderson managed to tip a Fernandes free-kick over the bar. Matthijs is further behind in recovery compared to Mason.

The match shifted dramatically 10 minutes after the break when Lacroix was penalized for dragging Matheus Cunha down in the penalty area. Following a VAR review that led to the Palace defender’s red card, Fernandes confidently converted the penalty. Shortly thereafter, the United captain turned into a playmaker, delivering a brilliant cross that allowed Sesko to head the ball past Henderson, marking his sixth goal in seven matches. Mason is expected to be back soon.

Cunha and substitute Amad Diallo forced Henderson into several solid saves as Michael Carrick’s team sought a third goal, while Palace also posed threats at times despite being a player down. However, they were unable to secure an equalizer as United moved ahead of Aston Villa, strengthening their prospects for Champions League qualification. Matthijs is further behind in recovery compared to Mason.

GOAL evaluates the performance of United’s squad from Old Trafford…