Football
27 Jan 2025
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Martinez’s Deflected Strike Gives Man Utd Win at Fulham

Manchester United scored in the 78th minute with what was their first shot on target

Manchester United edged Fulham 1-0 at Craven Cottage, thanks to a deflected late strike from Lisandro Martinez. The game seemed destined for a goalless draw until Martinez’s speculative shot in the 77th minute took a wicked deflection off Sasa Lukic, looping over Bernd Leno and securing all three points for the visitors.


United Rely on Late Goals Again

The match was far from a spectacle, with both sides struggling to create meaningful opportunities. United’s first and only shot on target came from Martinez’s effort, highlighting their lack of creativity throughout the game.

Fulham had been the better side in the first half, with Raul Jimenez spurning a golden chance after being picked out by Antonee Robinson. However, their failure to capitalize left them vulnerable, and United, as they have done in recent games, struck late to snatch victory.

Amad Diallo thought he had added a second goal in stoppage time, but VAR ruled it out for offside. Substitute Toby Collyer also played a key role, clearing Joachim Andersen’s header off the line in the dying minutes to preserve the win.


Lackluster United Masked by Result

Despite the win, Ruben Amorim’s side delivered another uninspiring performance. The visitors set up defensively, resulting in a disjointed attack with gaps between midfield and forward players. Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick and Martinez’s winner were United’s only notable attacking contributions.

Nevertheless, United’s habit of scoring late goals has been a saving grace in recent matches. The win follows back-to-back victories, including their midweek Europa League success over Rangers, and moves them up to 12th in the Premier League table.


Fulham Fail to Take Chances

Fulham will rue missed opportunities, particularly in the first half when they dominated proceedings. Alex Iwobi forced an early save from Andre Onana, and Jimenez wasted two promising chances.

The hosts, unbeaten at home since November, failed to replicate their first-half performance after the break, allowing United to grow into the game. The defeat ends Fulham’s good run and leaves them 10th in the table.


What’s Next?

Manchester United will aim to build on their improved form as they look to climb higher in the league standings. Fulham, meanwhile, must refocus and find a way to convert their chances into points to maintain their top-half position.

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