Manchester United put on a clinical performance against Southampton, securing a 3-0 victory in match week 4. Despite Southampton’s attempts to press and create chances, United’s efficiency in the final third proved decisive. The game showcased United’s offensive prowess and tactical discipline, while Southampton struggled to capitalize on their moments of possession.

Important Stat Breakdown

Shots: United dominated with 20 shots compared to Southampton’s 6.
Goals: United’s ruthlessness was on display, converting 3 of their shots, while Southampton failed to find the net.
Expected Goals (xG): United’s xG of 2.571 reflects their high-quality chances, whereas Southampton’s xG of 1.595 indicates some missed opportunities.
Possession: United held 55% of possession, but it was their use of the ball that set them apart, as they had 93 possession numbers and maintained a longer average possession duration.
Passes and Progressive Runs: United made 21 progressive runs compared to Southampton’s 14, showcasing their ability to advance the ball effectively.

Match Momentum

The match momentum chart highlights United’s control throughout the game. Southampton had moments where they threatened, particularly in the early stages, but United’s ability to absorb pressure and transition quickly into attack was evident. Key moments included de Ligt’s goal in the 35th minute and Rashford’s strike in the 41st minute, which both shifted the momentum firmly in United’s favor. By the second half, United had established dominance, with Garnacho adding a late goal in the 96th minute to cap off a solid performance.

Shots Taken and Shots on Goal

Southampton managed 6 shots with an xG of 0.83. Their shot map indicates most attempts were from outside the box or from less threatening positions. Only 3 shots were on target, none of which converted to goals.

Manchester United showcased their attacking variety with 20 shots, 9 of which were on target. Their shot map shows a mix of efforts from inside and outside the box, with a significant portion of their threat coming from central areas. United’s efficiency is highlighted by their 3 goals, each coming from high xG areas, indicating well-worked moves leading to quality chances.

Possession Tactics Using the Pass Maps

Southampton attempted to build through their midfield, with Downes and Ugochukwu playing pivotal roles in linking the defense to attack. Their passes often circled through the midfield trio, but a lack of penetration in the final third meant that many of their passing sequences failed to progress into dangerous areas. Brereton Díaz and Sugawara offered width, but they struggled to get behind United’s backline consistently.

United’s pass map reveals a more cohesive and fluid approach. The midfield trio of Mainoo, Eriksen, and Fernandes controlled the tempo, with Fernandes frequently finding space between the lines. United’s full-backs, Dalot and Mazraoui, pushed forward to support the attack, creating overloads on the flanks. Bruno Fernandes was instrumental in linking play and dictating United’s forward movements, often connecting with Rashford and Zirkzee

Manchester United’s victory was a testament to their tactical discipline, offensive efficiency, and control over the game. Southampton, despite showing moments of promise, were unable to break through United’s solid defense or convert their chances into goals. United’s ability to maintain possession and create high-quality scoring opportunities was the key difference, securing them a convincing win in this fixture.