Manchester United put in a true team performance to register a memorable 2-1 win over Liverpool at Anfield.
Victories for Manchester United at Anfield are rare, so you have to make the most of it. Supporters who were in attendance won’t forget this one in a hurry.
For four Manchester United players this was a first game at Anfield representing the club. New signings Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko all contributed towards the three points.
Mbeumo scored the opening goal after just 62 seconds. He is proving to be lethal in front of goal if given the opportunity.
Matheus Cunha is still waiting for his first goal contribution – but he was a valuable part of a winning effort.
Matheus Cunha praised
Brazil international Matheus Cunha was selected as a starter instead of striker Benjamin Sesko, which came as a little of a surprise.
Cunha provided a threat in attack, but really came into his own when Mason Mount was substituted for Sesko and he dropped back into his preferred role.
His ability to keep possession was particularly valuable late in the game and Cunha’s fighting spirit was also noticeable.
Speaking postgame on MUTV’s coverage, former player David May picked out Cunha for praise.
“Unbelievable, some unbelievable performances from guys at the back, Cunha was different class.”
Forbes journalist Sam Pilger also raved about Cunha’s performance and all-around ability.
He said: “Matheus Cunha has not yet scored for Manchester United, but my word what a beautiful player, full of composure, skill, flair, courage and character. An incredible signing who is only getting started.”
Cunha’s fighting spirit and on-ball quality is immeasurable
There are moments where you can pick out statistics to illustrate a player’s importance to the team. To try and do this with Matheus Cunha would be doing him a disservice.
Cunha’s very presence and movement around the final third caused Liverpool constant headaches, but most important was his ability to keep the ball.
Liverpool tried to rescue the game with an ultra-attacking line-up, and Cunha was vital in ensuring that United had as much possession as possible.
Even late on as Liverpool’s goalkeeper attempted to launch a desperate pass upfield from a free-kick, Cunha was able to get a deflection on it and change its trajectory.
Goals and assists will come for the Brazil international. And there will be moments where he drops to the bench, such is United’s array of attacking riches.
It is a good problem for United to have, and this could be a breakthrough moment for Ruben Amorim.
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