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Hojlund Shines as United Edge Bodo/Glimt in Thrilling Europa League Encounter

In a night filled with drama and excitement, Rasmus Hojlund stole the show at Old Trafford, scoring twice to lead Manchester United to a thrilling 3-2 victory over FK Bodo/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League. This match marked Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge at the iconic stadium, and it certainly did not disappoint.

The Red Devils got off to a sensational start, with Alejandro Garnacho capitalising on a goalkeeping error to net the opener just 50 seconds into the match. The home crowd erupted, but their joy was short-lived as the Norwegian side quickly turned the tide.

Bodo/Glimt responded with two quick-fire goals that left United reeling. Hakon Evjen curled in a stunning equaliser in the 19th minute, before Philip Zinckernagel silenced the home fans with a well-placed shot just four minutes later, putting the visitors ahead.

Despite struggling against a well-organised Bodo/Glimt side, United managed to find their footing just before half-time. Hojlund showcased his skill with a brilliant volley from Noussair Mazraoui’s cross, restoring parity and sending the teams into the break level at 2-2.

Amorim made a tactical switch at half-time, changing to a 4-2-3-1 formation, which proved to be a masterstroke. United dominated the second half, and Hojlund was on hand to put them ahead in the 50th minute, finishing clinically from a central position after some clever build-up play.

The hosts had opportunities to extend their lead, but Garnacho squandered two golden chances, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as the match approached its conclusion. Ultimately, United held on for a vital win, their second in this season’s European campaign, lifting them to 12th in the league phase standings.

Looking ahead, United will now turn their attention to the Premier League, where Amorim will make his home debut against Everton on Sunday.

Tactical Flexibility Proves Key for Amorim

Before the match, Amorim expressed confidence in his players adapting to his philosophy, but it was evident that the squad was still finding its feet in his preferred 3-4-3 system. The visitors exploited the gaps in the first half, but the Portuguese manager’s tactical adjustments at the break made a significant impact.

Switching to a 4-2-3-1 allowed United to assert their dominance in the second half, showcasing Amorim’s ability to adapt to the situation. This flexibility was a major takeaway from the match, alongside Hojlund’s impressive performance, which has fans hopeful that he can continue to develop under a coach known for nurturing talent.

Player of the Match: Rasmus Hojlund

Hojlund was undoubtedly the standout performer on the night. He not only played a crucial role in forcing the error that led to Garnacho’s opener but also demonstrated exceptional skill and composure to score both of his goals. His first was a display of technique, while the second showcased his poacher’s instinct, ensuring that Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford began with a victory.

Player Ratings

*Manchester United:* Onana 6, Mazraoui 7, De Ligt 6, Martinez 6, Antony 6, Ugarte 7, Fernandes 7, Malacia 6, Mount 7, Hojlund 9, Garnacho 8. Subs: Dalot 8, Rashford 6, Amad 7, Shaw 6, Casemiro 6.

*Bodo/Glimt:* Haikin 7, Wembangomo 7, Gundersen 7, Bjortuft 7, Bjorkan 7, Evjen 8, Berg 7, Brunstad Fet 7, Zinckernagel 7, Helmersen 7, Hauge 7. Subs: Sjøvold 6, Hogh 6, Saltnes 6, Maatta 6, Auklend n/a.

Match Highlights

– **01’ – GOAL!** – Man Utd 1-0 Bodo/Glimt: Garnacho capitalises on a goalkeeping blunder to score.
– **19’ – GOAL!** – Man Utd 1-1 Bodo/Glimt: Evjen curls in a stunning equaliser.
– **23’ – GOAL!** – Man Utd 1-2 Bodo/Glimt: Zinckernagel puts the visitors ahead with a low shot.
– **45’ – GOAL!** – Man Utd 2-2 Bodo/Glimt: Hojlund levels with a brilliant volley.
– **50’ – GOAL!** – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/Glimt: Hojlund scores again to give United the lead.

As the dust settles on this exhilarating encounter, United fans will be hoping for more of the same as they look to build momentum in both domestic and European competitions.