Ruben Amorim’s wish to “create some danger” flared at the start of each half, then faded, as Manchester United were suckerpunched by Jean‑Philippe Mateta’s second goal, on 89 minutes, that sealed a first defeat in four games.
United and Crystal Palace were becalmed in front of goal except for when the Eagles twice took advantage of the home side’s slipshod defending. Mateta’s finish was simple. Ismaïla Sarr received the ball from the substitute Adam Wharton, shrugged off a challenge near halfway and slid the ball to Daniel Muñoz. He ran forward and squared to the striker, who did not miss.
