Zirkzee Ends Drought, Fuels Man Utd Palace Win

Manchester United secured a much-needed 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, marking their first win in four games, thanks to second-half goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount.

Manager Ruben Amorim’s side initially went down 1-0 at Selhurst Park when Jean-Philippe Mateta converted a penalty in the 36th minute (after the initial attempt was disallowed and retaken due to a double-touch rule implemented this season).

The turnaround began in the 54th minute when Zirkzee, who had faced criticism for a nearly year-long league goal drought following his 2024 transfer from Bologna, controlled a Bruno Fernandes free-kick on his chest and powered a brilliant volley into the far corner.

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Seven minutes later, Mount completed the comeback, taking a short free kick from Fernandes and driving a low shot past goalkeeper Dean Henderson from 20 yards for only his second goal of the season.

Amorim praised his team’s second-half intensity, noting that Palace had begun to tire. He also highlighted the improvement in Zirkzee’s all-around play.

The victory was particularly significant, as it inflicted Palace’s first home league defeat since February, providing a crucial boost to United after their recent struggles.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.