Bournemouth stunned Manchester United with a dominant 3-0 victory at Old Trafford, as Ruben Amorim’s inconsistent reign continues. Goals from Dean Huijsen, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo showcased the Cherries’ attacking prowess, leaving United languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table at Christmas for the first time since 1989.
First Half: Huijsen Punishes United’s Set-Piece Vulnerability
United, fresh off an exhilarating 2-1 comeback win against Manchester City last weekend, were brought crashing back to reality. Bournemouth broke the deadlock in the 29th minute when Dean Huijsen nodded home Ryan Christie’s expertly delivered free-kick.
The goal highlighted United’s recurring set-piece struggles, as goalkeeper André Onana was left rooted to the spot, unable to react. This marked yet another defensive lapse for a side that has conceded more set-piece goals than any other Premier League team this year.
Second Half: Bournemouth Take Full Control
The Cherries continued their relentless pressure after the break and doubled their lead in the 61st minute. Justin Kluivert converted from the penalty spot after being fouled by Noussair Mazraoui in the box.
Before United could regroup, Antoine Semenyo made it 3-0 just two minutes later. The forward finished a sharp counter-attack with a clinical left-footed strike from Dango Ouattara’s cutback, silencing the Old Trafford faithful.
Contrasting Fortunes: Bournemouth Soar as United Struggle
This emphatic win propels Bournemouth into fifth place in the Premier League, just three points off the top four. For Manchester United, the loss sees them slip to 13th—an unthinkable position for the Red Devils heading into the festive period.
United’s defensive issues have reached a critical point. The team has now conceded three or more goals in four home league games this season, a statistic only outdone by Southampton’s five. They’ve also conceded 17 goals from set-pieces (excluding penalties) in the Premier League in 2024, their worst calendar year in the competition’s history.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, are enjoying their best away form in years, having won three consecutive league games on the road for the first time since December 2023.
Key Takeaways
- United’s Set-Piece Nightmare: Defensive vulnerabilities continue to haunt Ruben Amorim’s side, with set-pieces becoming a glaring weakness.
- Bournemouth’s Momentum: The Cherries are now genuine contenders for a top-four push, showcasing tactical discipline and clinical finishing.
- Historical Lows for United: For the first time since the 1989-90 season, Manchester United are in the bottom half of the table at Christmas.
Match Stats
Possession: Manchester United 55% – Bournemouth 45%
Shots on Target: Manchester United 4 – Bournemouth 7
Corners: Manchester United 5 – Bournemouth 3
Man of the Match: Dean Huijsen
What’s Next?
Manchester United must regroup and address their defensive shortcomings as they face a tough festive fixture schedule. Bournemouth, meanwhile, will look to build on their impressive form and continue their push for European qualification.