The stark contrast in MU's victory

Manchester United finally got their first win in the Premier League this season when they beat Burnley 3-2 at Old Trafford on August 30.

However, that joy was not complete, because the terrible second half brought back old hauntings: MU easily fell into a passive position when the opponent pressed high, and Ruben Amorim continued to struggle without a solution.

Explosive first half - wasted opportunities

The first 45 minutes were the best football United fans have seen all season. Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount controlled the tempo, Casemiro created a solid wall in front of the defence, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo made Burnley's flanks wobble. The ball rolled at high speed, and chances were plentiful.

But the unfortunate thing is that MU could not "finish" the opponent when they were on the rise. The obvious missed opportunities, combined with an unacceptable mistake by the goalkeeper, made the scenario of a resounding victory not come true. It was that wastefulness that opened the door for a stormy scenario after the break.

As soon as Burnley adjusted and pressed high, MU immediately lost control. The familiar scenario with Fulham last week was repeated: a dominant first half, a chaotic second half. Amorim did not come up with a response plan, leaving the team in a stalemate, caught up in the opponent's rhythm.

Ruben Amorim's tactics still leave many question marks.

The highlight was the decision to replace Casemiro. In the first half, the Brazilian midfielder had absolute control of the midfield, helping MU cut off Burnley's counter-attacks. However, as soon as he left the field, the home team lost all support, the midfield was divided, and the defense was constantly put on the defensive.

If Amorim wanted to increase their attack, they should have sacrificed a centre-back to bring more players into the middle of the pitch, instead of leaving the defensive midfielder and leaving the midfield exposed. When Burnley pressed, MU had almost no answer.

Every attacking idea in the second half was fragmented, disjointed and failed to make a difference. The stalemate at home against a lower-ranked opponent was a clear demonstration of Amorim's tactical shortcomings.

Distinctive Individuality and Harsh Contrast

If we had to pick a highlight, Bryan Mbeumo would definitely be the most deserving name. He continuously stretched Burnley's defense, created dangerous situations and left a strong impression.

Amad Diallo also showed maturity and confidence in his handling. Bruno and Mount had a brilliant first half, but like the rest of the team, they disappeared after the break.

The contrast between the two halves was too obvious. An explosive, energetic MU in the first half, then a disjointed, powerless "Red Devils" in the second half. That gap exposed the problem not only in finishing or mentality, but also in the tactical ability of the entire coaching team.

Three points against Burnley meant relief, but the way MU fought exposed the fragility of a team that lacked solid tactical fortitude.

This victory is of course very important. After the defeat to Arsenal and the draw with Fulham, MU needed a boost to avoid sinking deeper into the crisis at the beginning of the season. The three points against Burnley helped the whole team regain some confidence, at the same time creating a basis for Amorim to continue his work.

However, the worry still lingers. When the opponent presses fiercely, MU almost falls into a completely passive position. This is a weakness that Fulham coach Marco Silva has pointed out, and now Burnley has successfully exploited. If Amorim does not find a solution soon, the "Red Devils" will be in trouble when facing much stronger teams.

The victory over Burnley was meant to relieve the pressure, but the way MU played exposed the fragility of a team lacking solid tactical skills. Amorim cannot rely on explosive first halves and then hope that his team can hold out in the second half.

The Premier League is tougher than that. And if they don't patch up their pressing woes soon, United's road this season will be full of thorns - despite their recent victory.

Source: https://znews.vn/su-tuong-phan-khac-nghiet-trong-chien-thang-cua-mu-post1581448.html