Analysis: Manchester United 3 Braga 2

Champions League, Tuesday 23^rd October 2012

Another Champions League win for United meant they continued their 100% record in the Champions League this season. It was more early goals however that caused concern in this match. Braga quickly went two nil up as a result of defensive errors, but United stormed back with goals from Hernandez and Evans to win the game, as has so often been the case this season. Below are some thoughts from the match:

No-one can find the defensive cure

Against Braga, United went behind in a match for the 8^th time out of their 12 matches this season. As Sir Alex Ferguson noted after the match however, it is very hard to pinpoint the causes for these defensive deficiencies. The early goals conceded have all been different types of goals, and it only seems to be a problem at home rather than in away matches. In this particular game it was poor marking from United’s defenders that gave the opportunity to Braga.

United do need to tighten up and concede less. Maybe it is as simple a matter as concentration in the early stages of games that will be the solution. The attacking force that is United’s front players currently abates any defensive problems with an onslaught of goals, but Ferguson has noted the quandary of conceding too many too early, and has promised a solution will be found.

Hernandez stakes his claim

Javier Hernandez had possibly his best game ever in a United shirt against Braga. His widely-appreciated finishing ability was on show through the two goals he scored. His movement and running also caused Braga any number of problems at the back, and it is this ability to bamboozle defenders that gives the creative players behind him space to weave their own magic.

The obvious improvement in the Mexican’s game this season has been his all-round link-up play. There is no doubting his better passing, his increased strength on the ball, and his advancement in his ability to bring others into the game when on his own up front are all big features of his improved game. Hernandez is perhaps unique at United in his ability to play on the last man as an out and out striker, and this could work in his favour in terms of getting game-time this season. He certainly staked a claim for his place with his superb performance against Braga.

Going Forward

This was overall another very impressive performance by United. Some of the play was beyond excellent, and the Reds continue to look a devastating threat when going forward. Once more there were defensive worries-time will surely cure those. Hernandez had a fantastic game, whilst Fletcher, Cleverley, Rooney, Rafael, Evans and van Persie all continued their good form. The dilemma as the manager approaches the matches ahead will be his team selection, with so many players in form. With more defensive security, on current form, United will be unstoppable.

Ratings

[4-3-1-2]: De Gea-6, Rafael-7, Carrick-6, Evans-8, Büttner-5, Fletcher-8, Kagawa-6, Cleverley-7,  Rooney-8, van Persie-7, Hernandez-9*

(Nani-6, Giggs-5)

*Man of the match