United overturn early pressure to hand Palace their first home league loss since February.
Crystal Palace saw their long home unbeaten run in the Premier League end on Sunday after Manchester United fought back for a 2-1 win at Selhurst Park. The result also gave United their first league victory at the ground in five years.
Palace controlled the first half and created several chances, pushing United back from the opening minutes. Jean-Philippe Mateta finally put them ahead from the penalty spot after Leny Yoro brought him down in the box. His first attempt was ruled out for a double touch, but the retake was cleanly scored.
United struggled to respond before the break and were fortunate that Palace failed to extend their lead. A mix of poor finishing and last-minute blocks kept the score at 1-0, with Ismaïla Sarr’s injury adding to Palace’s frustrations.
The match changed after halftime. United came out sharper and caught Palace off guard when Bruno Fernandes took a quick free-kick. Joshua Zirkzee controlled the ball well and curled in the equaliser, leaving goalkeeper Dean Henderson flat-footed.
Minutes later, United completed the turnaround. Zirkzee won a free-kick near the edge of the box, and Mason Mount powered a low strike into the net after Palace’s wall hesitated. The goal was Mount’s standout moment in an improved United performance.
Palace struggled to regain control without Sarr’s pace and never settled after falling behind. United, calmer and more organised, defended well and kept the hosts from creating clear chances in the final minutes.
The win moves United above Palace into sixth place, giving manager Ruben Amorim a much-needed boost after a difficult start to the week. Palace manager Oliver Glasner will be left frustrated that his team failed to capitalise on their early dominance.
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