Manchester United cruised into the EFL Cup fourth round with a dynamic performance and a 3-0 win over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag made plenty of changes as United prepared to host the Eagles twice in a week, and the Red Devils were 2-0 up after 27 minutes through Alejandro Garnacho’s slammed finish and Casemiro’s header from a Mason Mount corner.
Sofyan Amrabat made an energetic and highly promising first start for the club, and United made absolutely sure of their commanding victory in the second half when Anthony Martial converted Casemiro’s punted ball into the box.
Dom Smith was at Old Trafford to rate the United performances…
Andre Onana — 7
Had much less to do than in recent outings for United, but saved twice from Jean-Philippe Mateta. A clean sheet he will cherish.
Diogo Dalot — 8
Such a well-balanced full-back. Showed that here, winning the ball for United and bombing forward. Assisted the opener.
Harry Maguire — 7
On a rare start for the club, passed assuredly. Filled in at left-back when Amrabat decided to dart elsewhere.
Raphael Varane — 6
Made a silly foul early on, but recovered to put in a decent showing. Replaced by Jonny Evans with half an hour to play.
Sofyan Amrabat — 8
What a full debut from the Moroccan. Played nominally at left-back in the first half and central midfield in the second, but in truth he was everywhere.
Casemiro — 8
Another goal. United didn’t think they were signing a goalscorer when they plucked him from Real Madrid, but signing a goalscorer they were. Then a gorgeous assist.
Mason Mount — 7
Didn’t look hugely sharp initially, but got an assist for United’s second goal with a lovely corner. Subbed at half-time as he is eased back from injury.
Hannibal Mejbri — 7
Played really well, covering an awful lot of ground. Standing ovasion from the home fans when he was replaced by Donny van de Beek, and deservedly so.
Alejandro Garnacho — 7
Absolutely rapid. Scored the opener just as United were beginning to take control of proceedings.
Facundo Pellistri — 7
Like Garnacho on the other side, a total nuisance to Palace.
Anthony Martial — 7
One of United’s longest servants scored an excellent third with a tidy finish from a tight angle.
Subs:
Victor Lindelof (Mount, 46’) — 6
Played at left-back as Erik ten Hag changed things round at half-time. Did nothing wrong.
Jonny Evans (Varane, 61’) — 6
Nearly scored from a corner, but for Sam Johnstone’s brilliant quick-reaction save.
Dan Gore (Amrabat, 61’) — 6
A senior debut for the midfielder on the occasion of his 19th birthday. Best present he could have asked for.
Donny van de Beek (Mejbri, 71’) — 6
Replaced Mejbri late on but didn’t have enough time to impress.
Rasmus Hojlund (Martial, 75’) — N/A
Subs not used: Bayindir, Heaton, Fernandes, Rashford
