Manchester United player ratings versus Nottingham Forest
It was sweet revenge for manager Erik Ten Hag and his team after they were bitterly beaten by Nottingham Forest 2-1 in the Premier League back in December 2023. Manchester United was poor in patches despite having the lion’s share of possession in the first half. Antony clawed his way back in the starting lineup after a run of poor games. He nearly repays his manager in the 3rd minute when his well struck first time shot ricocheted off the crossbar Matt Turner was beaten comprehensively. Scott McTominay had an early chance too after he was found unmarked expertly by Anthony, but his header went straight down the throat of Forest goalkeeper Matt Turner.
Forest too was given a few look in merely due to poor passing by Man United. Forest first real effort fell to Taiwo Awoniyi, whose shot was much too close to Onana. Moments later another poor pass sent Divock Origi’s on his way and he did let one fly, but his powerful effort was punched away to safety by goalkeeper Onana.
All in all, the Red Devils found that decisive goal by Casemiro from a Bruno Fernandes free kick after he was brought down by former Manchester United prodigy Anthony Elanga.
Here are the player ratings:
GK: Andre Onana - 8/10 - He made 5 saves including a blinder from Origi it would appear to be a routine stop but it was hit with loads of venom. He also had an 83% accurate passing a few of them sets up the attack nicely in transition.
RB: Diogo Dalot - 8/10 - His crossing game has improved immensely under manager Ten Hag. He served up some delightful crosses, especially in the first half and in all fairness should have at least 1 assist.
CB: Raphael Varane - 7/10 - A beast in defense and on his good game day can be a menace to attackers. He commanded the box well and barked instructions around to good effect.
CB: Victor Lindelof - 6/10 -Not one of his best games but certainly not one of his worst. His last-ditch block in the first half was enough to keep Forest's Awoniyi off the score sheet, who has scored 6 goals this campaign.
CM: Casemiro – 7/10 - Was not outstandingly great, made a few wayward passes but got the all-important goal that made the difference.
CM: Scott McTominay - 7/10 - Arguably his best season in a Manchester United shirt. He had two glorious chances and should have had a double easily.
RM: Antony - 5/10 - He started sprightly and almost gave the visitors the opening goal. However, his bright start faded quickly and as a result he was substituted.
AM: Bruno Fernandes (c) - 8/10 - A better performance from the Fulham game. He took several long-range efforts but with no great luck. However, his well taken free kick helped secure the win.
LM: Alejandro Garnacho - 4/10 - A very quiet afternoon in a must win game where he needs to shine brightly.
ST: Marcus Rashford - 5/10 - Showed glimpse of greatness and glimpse of equal frustration.
Substitutes
SUB: Amad Diallo (73' for Antony) - 6/10
SUB: Jonny Evans (90+4' for Amrabat) - N/A
SUB: Kobbie Mainoo (90+4' for McTominay) - N/A
Manager
Erik ten Hag - 6/10 - Plagued with lack of availability and quality all season both on the pitch and on the bench. However as expected he got the job done hopefully, he will have a stronger bench and starting 11 for the quarter finals with Liverpool.