Joao Pedro’s Late Header Secures Dramatic Win for Brighton Against Manchester United.
Brighton extended their perfect start to the season with a thrilling 95th-minute winner, courtesy of Joao Pedro, who headed home to seal a 2-1 victory over Manchester United. The dramatic late goal ensured Brighton maintained their 100% record, leaving Manchester United stunned at the Amex Stadium.
The match had its share of twists, with United initially thinking they had secured a win when Alejandro Garnacho turned in Bruno Fernandes’ cross in the 72nd minute. However, VAR ruled the goal out for offside after the ball made contact with substitute Joshua Zirkzee before crossing the line.
This disallowed goal set the stage for Joao Pedro to clinch the game for Brighton in the dying moments. Pedro capitalised on a precise cross from Simon Adingra, heading the ball past the United defence to secure the win.
Earlier in the match, former United striker Danny Welbeck had put Brighton ahead with a well-taken goal in the first half, marking his fifth Premier League goal against his former club. Welbeck nearly doubled his tally with a header in the second half, only to be denied by the crossbar.
United found an equaliser through Amad Diallo on the hour mark, sparking hope for the visitors. However, despite efforts from Scott McTominay and Casemiro, who both tried their luck from distance, United couldn’t find the back of the net again after Garnacho’s goal was disallowed.
The final whistle was met with jubilation from the home fans, who celebrated not only the victory but also the impressive start to the managerial tenure of Fabian Hurzeler, who has faced questions due to his young age of just 31. Billy Gilmour, linked with a move to Napoli, was named man of the match, adding to the joyous atmosphere as Brighton’s supporters cheered for the Scottish midfielder to stay.
Brighton’s win leaves them at the top of the table, while Manchester United are left to reflect on what could have been, as they look to bounce back in their next fixture.