Set-Piece Sniper: United’s Precise Comeback Seals Victory at Palace
30 November 2025
Set-piece magic turns the tables in London
Manchester United recovered from a first-half deficit to beat Crystal Palace 2-1 in a Premier League clash at Selhurst Park on Sunday, continuing a run of late-game efficiency from dead balls.
Palace went ahead through a penalty converted by Jean-Philippe Mateta in the 36th minute after a VAR review raised the possibility of a double touch; the spot-kick was retaken and the French striker found the net again, giving the hosts the lead.
United leveled early in the second half through a set-piece routine that reached Joshua Zirkzee inside the box, who finished with a composed strike to make it 1-1.
Moments later, Bruno Fernandes delivered a short pass to Mason Mount, who rolled the ball into the net to complete a quick turnaround and crown United’s lead in the 63rd minute.
The visitors then shored up the defense and withstood sustained Palace pressure as the hosts sought an equaliser, but United held firm to seal a 2-1 victory.
Crystal Palace were managed by Oliver Glasner, while Ruben Amorim led Manchester United in a game that featured a number of chances for both sides and several key saves by the goalkeepers.
In the opening exchanges, Palace pressed high and created danger, but United weathered the storm before the decisive moments arrived after the break.
Palace’s squad for the afternoon included Mateta and Nkietiah among others, while United lined up with their own attacking talent as they chased a win that would boost their league position.
As the clock wore on, Palace pushed for an equaliser, yet United’s discipline and sharp counters saw them through to the final whistle, with the score remaining 2-1 at full time.
Note to the rest of the league: if your plan was “wait for VAR,” Manchester United just taught you a masterclass in turning set-pieces into goals.
Punchline 1: If set-pieces were sniper rounds, United just loaded the clip—and the keeper’s hands couldn’t reload in time.
Punchline 2: Palace parked the bus; United parked a sniper on the corner flag and fired. Boom, game over.
