Manchester United vs Fulham: Zirkzee's Late Winner Secures Opening Day Victory

Match Summary

Manchester United kicked off the 2024/25 Premier League season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford.

The match was decided by a late goal from Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, who made his debut for United following his summer move from Bayern Munich.

Zirkzee's goal came in the 89th minute, after a scramble in the Fulham penalty area. The striker pounced on a loose ball and fired home from close range.

Team News

Both teams made several changes to their starting lineups from last season.

For United, Zirkzee made his debut, while Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia also started for the first time.

Fulham, meanwhile, handed debuts to Bernd Leno, Kevin Mbabu, and Joao Palhinha.

Match Highlights

• Fulham had the better chances in the first half, with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Harry Wilson both going close.
• United improved after the break, with Zirkzee and Anthony Martial causing problems for the Fulham defense.
• Zirkzee's late goal secured the victory for United, and gave the club a perfect start to the season.

Post-Match Reaction

United manager Erik ten Hag was delighted with the victory, saying: "It was a tough game, but we showed great character to come from behind and win.

Fulham boss Marco Silva was disappointed with the result, but praised his team's performance.