Man Utd will have a hard time beating Brighton. This was proven in the two confrontations between the two teams in the 2022/23 season. Brighton was the first team to defeat Man Utd under coach Erik ten Hag - a 2-1 victory right at Old Trafford in the opening round of the Premier League.
The Red Devils beat Brighton in the FA Cup semi-final replay two weeks ago. However, it is hard to say that Man Utd played better in a match where they had to wait for their opponents to miss a penalty to win. In fact, Erik ten Hag's team were outclassed for most of the match.
Man Utd struggled against Brighton in the last 2 confrontations.
That's no surprise. Brighton have been one of the best teams in the Premier League this season, despite being forced to change managers midway through the campaign. Brighton's ability to control the back line has caused Man Utd to struggle in both encounters. The Red Devils' pressing and tackling have been ineffective as Brighton's tall centre-backs have turned out to be good ball-handlers and very calm.
The team led by coach Roberto de Zerbi has the ability to attack and create impressive chances. However, what Brighton lacks is a good striker. This could be the key point for Man Utd to worry less when facing Brighton. They do not need to chase the ball in the opponent's field but can still limit the threat of the opponent's attack with a deep defense, keeping a reasonable distance.
The central defender problem when Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are out for a long time seems to be handled well by coach Erik ten Hag. Harry Maguire is not used, Man Utd limit the moments of carelessness. Luke Shaw is not a player with a strong point in the central defender position but he does not make elementary mistakes like the captain.
Brighton are a team that likes to control and attack, which gives Rashford and Bruno Fernandes plenty of space to make quick plays. However, Man Utd need more options to diversify their attacks.
Expected lineup Brighton vs Man Utd
Brighton: Steele; Gross, Colwill, Dunk, Estupinan; Caicedo, Mac Allister; March, Enciso, Mitoma; Welbeck
Man Utd: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Shaw, Malacia; Casemiro; Fernandes, Sabitzer, Eriksen, Antony; Rashford
Prediction: Brighton 1-0 Man Utd
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