Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest | 2022/23 PL

We learnt three things as Manchester United triumphed over Nottingham Forest with a convincing 2-0 victory on Sunday. Prior to this game, the Red Devils had experienced a mixed run of form, winning three, drawing one, and losing one in their previous five games across various competitions.

Nottingham Forest, who are battling to stay in the Premier League, were unable to pose much of a threat to Manchester United in the first half. Martial’s shot was blocked, but Antony was on hand to convert the rebound and give the visitors the lead. In the second half, Antony provided a timely assist to Diogo Dalot, who scored United’s second goal of the game.

Antony, Diogo Dalot, Manchester United, Nottingham Forest — Image Obtained via The Busby Babe

Despite Erik ten Hag making several changes to the defence, including starting Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, and Diogo Dalot at the City Ground, the team looked comfortable and confident all throughout the game.

1. Antony Stars In A Comfortable Win

According to the Dutch manager, Antony has the potential to become the next Arjen Robben at English club, and the coach has been patiently waiting for his development. Finally, during the game against the Garibaldi, the Brazilian winger scored his first Premier League goal in six months.

Antony’ game vs Nottingham Forest:

85% accuracy
1 goal
1 assist
1 key
100% through balls completed
45/53 es completed
1 long ball
30/35 final third es completed pic.twitter.com/dw023HfGkI

— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) April 16, 2023

Additionally, he provided an impressive assist to Diogo Dalot, which secured the victory for the Red Devils. Antony, who ed the team in September in a deal worth £85.51 million from Ajax, has now scored eight goals in all in his debut season.

2. Christian Eriksen Back With A Triumphant Performance On Return To Starting XI

Ten Hag commended Christian Eriksen’s return to the starting lineup. Despite being originally named as a substitute for the match, the Danish midfielder was hastily called upon to start after Marcel Sabitzer’s injury during warm-up, less than 15 minutes before kick-off.

After spending more than two months on the sidelines due to an ankle injury, the 30-year-old midfielder made his first start in 11 weeks, putting up a remarkable performance that earned him a standing ovation when he was substituted off late in the game.

3. Fernandes And Casemiro Show United Have Right Mentality

Manchester United have an unbeaten record of 15 wins and two draws when the trio of Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Bruno Fernandes feature in the starting lineup.

Fernandes was exceptional in his role at the centre of the pitch. He played with great energy and controlled the game by contributing both in attack and defence. The Portuguese’s for his teammates was impressive, as he made several forward runs to create scoring opportunities.

Bruno missed an opportunity to score a goal in the first half when his header from Eriksen’s cross went wide. In the second half, they took advantage of Forest’s sluggishness, but Keylor Navas deflected the playmaker’s powerful shot onto the crossbar.

Meanwhile, Casemiro returned to the team after serving a four-match domestic suspension and made his first Premier League start in five weeks. After the match, he acknowledged the United fans by repeatedly punching the air and earning a spontaneous chant.

Nottingham Forest home fans showed their for the team during the closing minutes of the match, but their efforts were in vain as Manchester United were unable to make a comeback.

The Red Devils have already sured their points total from last season, with eight games remaining in the current season. They have climbed to third place in the league standings, overtaking Newcastle. United also hold a six-point advantage over fifth-placed Tottenham, with an extra game in hand. However, their remaining fixtures include challenging match-ups against Chelsea, Spurs, and Aston Villa.

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