Patrick Dorgu don turn hero for Manchester United as he score stunning goal wey punish wasteful Newcastle United, helping the Red Devils edge past the Magpies 1-0 for Boxing Day Premier League clash.
Before the game, signs no dey good for Bruno Fernandes-less United. Since 2022-23, dem don lose six and draw one of seven league games wey Bruno no start.
But Man Utd survive slight storm from Eddie Howe’s side, and Dorgu draw first blood with a sensational left-footed volley into the corner – his first-ever goal for the club.
After Dorgu strike, Man Utd pressure Newcastle plenty second half, but Newcastle no fit find that killer finish all night.
With the win, fifth-placed United level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea, trailing only on goal difference. Meanwhile, 11th-placed Newcastle dey six points worse off.
TPB Verdict
The streak dey intact.
Man Utd never lose a Premier League home game when dem dey lead at half time, and dem don win all four Boxing Day matches against Newcastle in the competition. But e fit don easily turn different story.
Newcastle throw everything for United second half, but their finishing power dey worry. Only three shots on target from 16 attempts. Expected Goals (xG) barely higher than Man Utd. Ruben Amorim’s tactical tweaks – shifting to back six – spark plenty debate, but in the end, the strategy help United secure three points and clean sheet against profligate Magpies.
Match Highlights
Patrick Dorgu Goal vs Newcastle – 24th minute
Diogo Dalot long throw reach Nick Woltemade at near post. Ball drop near Dorgu just inside penalty area. Dane no waste time – smashes exquisite left-footed volley past Aaron Ramsdale into the corner. First goal for Man Utd, and what a one!
Man of the Match – Patrick Dorgu
Dorgu enjoy festive period with stunning goal, but e contribution no stop there. Five clearances, four recoveries, three fouls won, and two interceptions. Ex-Arsenal man Ayden Heaven get love from teammates too, but Dorgu just edge am for top spot.
Match Stats
- Possession: Man Utd 33% – 67% Newcastle
- Shots: Man Utd 9 – 16 Newcastle
- Shots on Target: Man Utd 3 – 3 Newcastle
- Corners: Man Utd 2 – 11 Newcastle
- Fouls: Man Utd 9 – 5 Newcastle
Wetin Dey Next?
Man Utd final fixture of 2025 go easy for them – dem go host basement side Wolverhampton Wanderers next Tuesday. Newcastle meanwhile travel to Burnley, where former Clarets goalkeeper Nick Pope fit make his on-field comeback.
