Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s United side suffered their first defeat against Instanbul Basaksehir after they produced a shambolic first half defensive display at the Fatih Terim Stadium. With the 2-1 defeat to Istanbul, Manchester United’s 18-game road unbeaten streak is now snapped. There was not any sign of danger for United’s defenders in the opening 10′ of the game.
The home side took the lead in the 12th minute. After a poor team coordination and awareness which allowed Demba Ba to collect the ball from United’s half. In turn, a race from the halfway line to score a wonderful goal to give his side an early lead. Its even more astonishing for the fans as their first goal came from United’ corner. This defeat means Istanbul are still in the race for the next rounds.
It came down to 1vs1 situation where Matic tried to chase him down but eventually failed. Later on the Turkish side doubled their lead when Deniz Turuc robbed Juan Mata of possession down the left flank. He raced forward, sending over a cross that Ba stepped over and Visca lashed it in past Henderson in 40′. It was the defence that continued to haunt them. Three United players on the right corner of the 6 yard box and Shaw darting back to find Visca celebrating. It was not really a dream Champions League match debut for Henderson as well.
United’s toothless attack against valiant Basaksehir defence
Anthony Martial came up with a brilliant header assisted by Luke Shaw to reduce the deficit to one goal just before the half-time. It was his second goal in this season across all competitions. United’s attack was not even threatening either last night, managed just 2 shots on target. There was not really an urge from United’s forward to go for the equaliser. They failed to create enough chances too. The positive intent was completely missing. Heavy touches, lack of good moves, poor team coordination has been the downfall for United in recent times.
The Red Devils rely on counter-attacks most of the times. As a result they fails to win against teams that sits deep. Selecting Mata may be one of the mistakes that Ole has made yesterday. He was not looking really comfortable against a fast paced Istanbul side. United nearly found the equaliser at the stoppage time when Basaksehir substitute, Topal diverted the ball towards his own goal line. Epureanu’s stunning clearance ensured the important 3 points for his club. Thus keeping the hopes alive for the next round.
Conclusion on this defeat
It’s been a successive defeats for the Red Devils. Both Arsenal and Istanbul have been clinical against the Solskjaer’s side. There are plenty of positives to be taken for the respective opponents. Its been a rollercoaster ride for United as far as their performance is concerned. For Solskjaer, diamond formations are not for ever. The formation worked well against Leipzig and was smashed brutally against Arsenal. Courtesy of a brilliant performance from Thomas Partey who bossed the midfield. Benching in-form Fred who has been magnificent for United in the defensive areas might be an another mistake from Ole. United defending for the two goals came under heavy criticism for the lack of organization. Question were raised over the future of manager.
