Manchester United 2-1 Brentford: Rasmus Hojlund’s goal seal victory as Erik ten Hag’s team come from behind to

Ethan Pinnock’s header during first-half stoppage time added more pressure on Erik ten Hag, as Manchester United entered the game against Brentford without a win in five matches. However, second-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund turned the game around.

United’s comeback was impressive, considering their struggle to create chances before halftime with low confidence. These three points push United above Brentford into the top half of the table, just ahead of their midweek trip to face Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.

Garnacho had a few early chances, but Brentford’s mix of short passes and long throws gave them the edge in the first half, with Bryan Mbeumo leading their attack. Their effort paid off under controversial circumstances, as Matthijs de Ligt had to leave the field for head injury treatment when Pinnock scored from a corner.

Ten Hag’s frustration was clear, earning him a yellow card for his protests. United responded in the second half with renewed focus, and Garnacho volleyed in Marcus Rashford’s cross, shifting the momentum.

United’s energy transformed, with Garnacho growing in confidence and Hojlund thriving in his battle with Pinnock. When Brentford failed to clear, Bruno Fernandes flicked the ball to Hojlund, whose composed finish put United ahead.

Brentford couldn’t mount a comeback, dropping to 12th place, while United climbed above them and Ten Hag eased some of the criticism he faced at halftime.