Last Updated on March 2, 2026 4:21 pm by ZUWP Automation
Sesko Header Seals Comeback Win After Early Palace Shock at Old Trafford
Manchester United overcame an early setback to secure a vital 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, as the hosts capitalized on Maxence Lacroix’s second-half dismissal to claim all three points and strengthen their grip on fourth place.
Palace Strike First
Maxence Lacroix stunned the home crowd in the 4th minute, powering home a header from Brennan Johnson’s pinpoint cross following a corner. The early goal highlighted Palace’s threat from set-pieces, with Johnson’s delivery proving decisive.
United responded with sustained pressure, dominating possession with 61% of the ball and peppering the Palace goal. Dean Henderson was in inspired form against his former club, making nine saves to repeatedly deny the hosts.
Red Card Turns the Tide
The match’s pivotal moment came in the 56th minute when Lacroix was shown a straight red card, leaving Palace to defend their lead with ten men. United immediately seized control, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating the attack.
The breakthrough finally came in the 65th minute through Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian striker met Fernandes’ precise cross with a powerful header that gave Henderson no chance, marking his fourth shot of an impressive individual display.
Statistical Dominance
United’s superiority was reflected in the match statistics, recording 20 shots to Palace’s 8, with 11 on target. Matheus Cunha was particularly threatening with two shots on target, while Palace struggled to maintain their early momentum after going down to ten men.
The hosts’ pressure was relentless, winning 7 corners to Palace’s solitary set-piece. Despite Palace’s resolute defending, with 29 effective clearances, United’s persistent attack eventually proved too much for the visitors to contain.
Late Drama
Palace didn’t surrender easily, with substitute Will Hughes forcing a late save from Senne Lammens. United introduced fresh legs through Amad and Joshua Zirkzee in the closing stages, with both forwards coming close to extending the lead.
Looking Ahead
The victory strengthens Manchester United’s position in fourth place with 45 points, while Crystal Palace remain in 13th with 32 points. The three-point gap to fifth place could prove crucial as the race for Champions League qualification intensifies.
United’s ability to overcome adversity and dominate possession will please their supporters, though the early defensive lapse will be a concern. For Palace, despite the disappointment of letting their lead slip, their organized defensive display with ten men showed admirable resilience.