The 24th round of the English Premier League (EPL) saw Manchester United defeat Leicester City 3-0 at King Power Stadium on 12 February 2023. The match saw Manchester United’s striker Marcus Rashford score two goals and assist in another, securing Manchester United’s victory. In this article, we will discuss the highlights of the match, including the game statistics, player performances, and tactical analysis.
Match Summary:
Manchester United entered the match with a strong lineup, with a 4-2-3-1 formation. In contrast, Leicester City deployed a 4-4-2 formation, but this proved ineffective against Manchester United’s dominant performance. Manchester United started the match with an attacking mindset, and they quickly put Leicester City on the backfoot.
The first goal of the match came in the 18th minute, with Marcus Rashford scoring from close range after a brilliant pass from midfielder Paul Pogba. Leicester City struggled to get back into the game and conceded another goal in the 34th minute when Marcus Rashford scored his second goal of the match from a counter-attack. Manchester United went into halftime with a 2-0 lead.
In the second half, Leicester City tried to push forward to get back into the game, but Manchester United’s defense held firm. Leicester City created a few opportunities, but they failed to convert any of them. In the 72nd minute, Manchester United sealed the game’s result when Anthony Martial scored a goal from a penalty, giving Manchester United a 3-0 lead.
Game Statistics:
Manchester United had a dominant performance, with 63% possession and 16 shots on goal, out of which seven were on target. Leicester City, on the other hand, had only four shots on goal, with one on target. Manchester United’s strong midfield and attacking play ensured that they controlled the game, with the defenders rarely being tested.
Player Performances:
Marcus Rashford was the star of the match, scoring two goals and providing an assist. He was constantly a threat to the Leicester City defense, making runs behind the defenders and using his pace and skill to create chances. Manchester United’s midfield, consisting of Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes, dominated the game, controlling the tempo and providing the forwards with plenty of opportunities. Manchester United’s defense, led by captain Harry Maguire, was solid and kept a clean sheet.
Tactical Analysis:
Manchester United’s attacking mindset and the use of the 4-2-3-1 formation played a significant role in their victory. The midfielders were given the freedom to create chances, and the forwards made runs behind the defenders, exploiting the space created. The defense held a high line, limiting the space for Leicester City’s forwards to operate in. Leicester City’s 4-4-2 formation failed to trouble Manchester United’s defense, and their midfield was overrun by Manchester United’s dominant midfield.