By Safiu Kehinde
Wolves have once again proven to be Manchester United’s worst nightmare as they grabbed a late winner at the Theatre of Dreams, bringing an end to the unbeaten run of the latter’s interim manager.
Ralph Rajnick’s men started the new year with the Wolves’ test at Old Trafford. The Red Devils had emerged victorious over Bruno Lage’s men during the first leg back in August 2021. A late goal from Mason Greenwood saw United edged past Wolves.
The second leg, however, saw Wolves pay back United in their own coin following a late strike from Joao Moutinho. Manchester United thrived to contain the visitor’s attacking threat but had to succumb in the 82nd minute after a weak clearance from Phil Jones landed on the feet of Moutinho who smashed the ball in a half-volley past David De Gea.
Wolves’ threat lingered from the first half and persisted till the final whistle. They bagged six shots on target and nine off target as against United’s two shots on target and five off target.
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani spearheading United’s attack, they could not break through Wolves’ defence. Rather, United’s goalkeeper, David De Gea was busy denying Wolves chances. The Spaniard was forced to clear what would have been a goal by Daniel Podence in the 12th minute.
Wolves midfielder, Nelson Semendo also had his chance denied by De Gea in the first half. The Portuguese posed a great threat for United at the right flank. His attempts including that of Reuben Neves, Conor, Coast, and Daniel Podence were all foiled by outstanding saves from De Gea.
The second half started with a bit of shake-up from the United’s squad but they still could not get rid of Wolves. Bruno Fernandes was brought on the bolster the Red Devils’ attack. Sensing the danger, Bruno Lage also substitute winger, Trincao for Adama Traore to improvise Wolves’ attacking threat.
At the end, Wolves were able to salvage a win after breaking the deadlock through Joao Moutinho’s screamer. Following Adama Traore’s cross, Moutinho capitalized on Phil Jones weak clearance to reward Wolves a sweet revenge against the Red Devils.
