· 2 min readIn this Man United vs Sabah match, I analyse the key tactical moments, individual performances and turning points of the game.
Man United are back in the Champions League after several seasons away and had a perfect start here: playing at home against a very modest side from Azerbaijan. If they want to finish in the top 8 and go straight through, United have to take advantage of these games, not only to win, but also to score plenty of goals.
United had more of the ball and some shots inside the box, but much more was expected against this opposition. Sabah defended in a 4-1-4-1. They tried to have the ball and play, although their limitations were obvious. Kaheem Parris still had a good individual move, getting past several players, but ended up trying to do too much.
In the 23rd minute, Mainoo found Bruno Fernandes making a run inside the box. The Portuguese tried to put the ball across for Sesko, but Daşdəmirov appeared well and cut it out. In the 27th minute, an attacking regain left Mbeumo with the ball, and he found Bruno. The captain played it out to Dorgu on the flank and the Dane put the ball nicely into the six-yard box. Matheus Cunha appeared in the right place and only had to tap it in. Pokatilov, Sabah’s goalkeeper and captain, still got a touch to the ball, but could not prevent the 1-0.
Sabah had their first big opportunity. Parris beat Dorgu one-on-one and crossed towards the far post, where Joy-Lance Mickels, the team’s goalscorer, appeared completely alone. The shot went wide.
Sabah also showed their limitations. From a low cross, they left a huge amount of space on the edge of the box and Bruno appeared completely alone, but shot far too high.
Until, in the 44th minute, Bruno appeared again. Matheus Cunha received on the left and played it to Tielemans near the byline. Instead of forcing the shot, the Belgian turned and laid it back. Bruno appeared and fired into the back of the net. 2-0.
And there was still time for another one. Bruno played first-time to Mbeumo, who put Sesko through. Sesko was left alone, went past the goalkeeper and calmly finished. 3-0. Game over at half-time.
United had 58% possession and 2.38 expected goals, compared to 0.35 for Sabah. The difference was clear.
In the second half, the game became much more comfortable. Sabah even had more possession in the opening minutes, but without creating any danger. United went into game management mode and also saw Cunha force Pokatilov into a great save with a low shot.
In the 68th minute, the fourth arrived. Bruno took a rehearsed free-kick and clipped the ball into the box. Zirkzee produced a lovely backheel, the ball was blocked and ended up hitting the goalkeeper. Lisandro Martínez was in the right place and only had to accept the gift. 4-0.
After that, little happened. The game was so comfortable that the fans were already singing United Road. Sabah tried, but they were too limited. Mbina headed close to the end and nearly scored, but United remained in control.
Post-match
Man United did what they had to do: won, scored four and never truly had the game at risk. The first half could have been stronger, but after the three goals, the team simply managed the game. For a Champions League debut like this, it was exactly what was required.
