By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
Brentford delivered a shock upset on Saturday as they outclassed Manchester United with a 3-1 win at the Gtech Community Stadium, piling more pressure on the Red Devils and their manager, Rúben Amorim.
The home side dominated from the outset, exploiting United’s defensive weaknesses and taking advantage of their sluggish midfield. Brentford struck twice in the first half through goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, leaving United chasing shadows.
Though United attempted a comeback in the second half, their only breakthrough came courtesy of Marcus Rashford, who converted a close-range effort in the 72nd minute. But Brentford sealed the result with a late goal from substitute Neal Maupay, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home crowd.
For Manchester United, the defeat continues a frustrating run of inconsistent form under Amorim, who only took over managerial duties earlier this season.
Despite a strong lineup that included Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and new signing Rasmus Højlund, United struggled to impose themselves. Their defense, led by Lisandro Martínez and Raphaël Varane, looked disjointed, while goalkeeper André Onana was left exposed too often.
“It was not good enough,” admitted Amorim after the match. “We didn’t show the intensity or discipline required at this level. The responsibility is mine, and we must respond quickly.”
Brentford, meanwhile, executed their game plan with precision. Manager Thomas Frank set his team up to press high and exploit space in wide areas. The combination of Mbeumo and Wissa repeatedly stretched United’s backline, while midfielders Christian Nørgaard and Mathias Jensen controlled the tempo.
Frank praised his players’ discipline and spirit. “We showed courage and belief against a very big team. The lads worked hard, took their chances, and fully deserved the win,” he said.
The result sparked heated reactions from both sets of supporters. United fans expressed disappointment at yet another setback in their hopes of a top-four challenge, while Brentford fans hailed the victory as one of their best performances of the season.
On social media, many Red Devils’ supporters questioned the direction of the club under Amorim. “We’re running out of excuses. Same mistakes, same lack of fight,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Brentford fans, however, celebrated their team’s resilience. “This is what football is about heart, tactics, and unity,” another supporter posted.
The win lifts Brentford into the top half of the Premier League standings, giving them renewed confidence as they aim to secure another mid-table finish or better.
For Manchester United, the loss is a major setback as they continue to drift further away from the Champions League qualification spots. Analysts suggest that Amorim must urgently address the team’s defensive frailties and improve their consistency if they are to turn their season around.
Brentford will next face Brighton in what promises to be another tough contest, while Manchester United return to Old Trafford to host Wolverhampton Wanderers, a match already being described as a “must-win” for Amorim.
With pressure mounting and fans growing restless, all eyes will be on how United respond after yet another humbling defeat.
