Man Utd 1 – 0 Wolves

August 14, 2023 admin

Raphael Varane’s close-range header secured a 1-0 win for Manchester United despite an unconvincing performance against unfancied Wolves at Old Trafford.

Gary O’Neil’s visitors had the better of the chances before Varane’s 76th-minute winner with Matheus Cunha spurning a golden opportunity to put Wolves ahead early in the second half in what was a lively performance by the Brazilian forward.

Erik ten Hag had stressed the need for his team to “raise the bar” before kick-off but it was a passive display from United in front of their own supporters. It took a good pass from Bruno Fernandes to unlock things, Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross finding Varane.

There were still opportunities for Wolves as substitute Fabio Silva twice forced United’s new goalkeeper Andre Onana into smart saves late in the game. There was even a stoppage-time penalty check when Onana clattered into Sasa Kalajdzic while failing to claim the ball.

O’Neil was booked for his complaints but he will be heartened even in defeat.

Ten Hag will surely be alarmed despite his side claiming the three points.