Manchester United hosted PAOK on November 7, 2024, in what turned out to be an exciting Europa League clash at the iconic Old Trafford. The match, kicking off at noon Pacific Time and 3 PM Eastern Time, brought fans together to witness a showdown between two teams with distinct styles. It was Matchday 4 out of 8 in the group stage, and both teams aimed to secure crucial points to keep their hopes alive in the competition.
Game Overview
In front of a buzzing Old Trafford crowd, Manchester United emerged victorious with a comfortable 2-0 win over PAOK. The star of the night was undoubtedly Amad Diallo, who scored both goals for United, showcasing his skill and precision. Diallo’s first goal came in the 50th minute, and he doubled United’s lead in the 77th minute with another well-placed shot. His clinical finishing proved to be the difference-maker, as PAOK struggled to break down United’s defense.
Key Match Stats
The match statistics highlight Manchester United’s dominance. United managed a total of 16 shots, compared to PAOK’s 8 attempts. Interestingly, both teams recorded an equal number of 4 shots on target, but it was United’s accuracy in front of the goal that made the difference. The possession stats were fairly balanced, with United holding 53% of the ball and PAOK close behind with 47%. Both teams demonstrated impressive passing, as Manchester United completed 519 passes with an accuracy of 83%, while PAOK wasn’t far off, with 479 passes at 82% accuracy.
However, it wasn’t all clean play. United committed 10 fouls, and PAOK went even further with 15 fouls. Each side picked up yellow cards, with United receiving 2 yellow cards and PAOK 1. There were no red cards, allowing both teams to keep eleven players on the field until the final whistle. United earned an advantage in set pieces, securing 9 corners to PAOK’s 4. Offsides were minimal, with United caught offside just once and PAOK twice.
Team News and Lineups
Manchester United was missing several key players due to injuries. Notably, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Antony, and Leny Yoro were all sidelined. Mason Mount had resumed training after recovering from an injury, but it was too early for him to participate in this match. Christian Eriksen’s availability was also uncertain, leaving manager Erik Ten Hag with some tough decisions.
To compensate for these absences, Bruno Fernandes returned to the lineup after serving a European suspension. Fernandes, who is a key playmaker for United, took up his usual midfield role, supporting the attack and creating opportunities. He was positioned just behind United’s young forward options, Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, both of whom were ready to lead the front line.
The probable starting eleven for Manchester United included: Onana as goalkeeper; Dalot, De Ligt, Martínez, and Mazraoui in defense; Ugarte and Casemiro in a double pivot; Diallo, Fernandes, and Rashford in the attacking midfield positions; with Zirkzee up front.
Meanwhile, PAOK also faced challenges with player availability. Dejan Lovren, Mbwana Samatta, and Vieirinha were all excluded from PAOK’s Europa League squad, while Tiemoue Bakayoko missed out due to injury. Mady Camara was expected to partner Magomed Ozdoyev in central midfield, with Shola Shoretire, a former Manchester United player, looking forward to facing his old team. PAOK’s starting lineup was likely to include Kotarski as goalkeeper; Jony, Kozioro, Colley, and Rahman in defense; Camara and Ozdoyev in midfield; and an attacking trio of Despodov, Constantelias, and Tyson supporting Chalov as the lone striker.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
The game began with both teams testing each other’s defenses, but Manchester United quickly gained control. United’s first goal came shortly after halftime, in the 50th minute, when Amad Diallo found the back of the net. Diallo’s goal lifted the spirits of the home fans and gave United the momentum they needed.
As the second half continued, PAOK attempted to mount a response but struggled to break through United’s defense. Diallo’s second goal in the 77th minute sealed the victory for United, ensuring they maintained their lead and managed the game effectively to the final whistle.
Analysis of Team Performance
Manchester United displayed a solid team performance, particularly in terms of maintaining possession and controlling the pace of the game. Their 83% pass accuracy and 9 corners reflect a well-coordinated offense, even with several key players absent. United’s defense, led by Martínez and De Ligt, kept PAOK at bay, limiting their chances and allowing goalkeeper Onana to make only a few crucial saves.
On the other hand, PAOK showed resilience but ultimately lacked the finishing power to threaten United’s lead. Their 47% possession and 15 fouls indicate they struggled to handle United’s offensive pressure. Though PAOK recorded 4 shots on target, they failed to capitalize on these opportunities.
Despite a commendable passing game with 82% accuracy, PAOK’s inability to convert their chances ultimately cost them the game. Their midfield, led by Camara and Ozdoyev, worked hard to keep United’s attack in check but found it challenging to support their lone forward Chalov effectively.
With this victory, Manchester United strengthens its position in the Europa League group standings, giving fans hope for a strong run in the tournament. The next few weeks will be crucial as United aims to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, PAOK will need to regroup and refine their approach for upcoming matches if they are to progress in the competition.
For United, the focus now shifts to their next Premier League match, where they hope to carry forward the confidence gained from this solid performance. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if Amad Diallo can continue his impressive form and if other key players like Mount and Eriksen will return to action soon.
The Manchester United vs. PAOK encounter provided an entertaining Europa League fixture, with United emerging as deserved winners. With goals from Amad Diallo and a dominant display at home, United’s victory was a testament to their resilience and depth. PAOK, despite their efforts, left Old Trafford empty-handed but with valuable lessons for the road ahead.
This 2-0 result reinforces United’s campaign in Europe, bringing optimism to the club and fans alike. As the Europa League progresses, both Manchester United and PAOK will undoubtedly look to make further strides, with their sights set firmly on the knockout stages.
