Patrick Dorgu delivered a moment of pure magic on Boxing Day, his instant left-foot volley securing Manchester United a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford.
The Danish winger’s stunning finish proved the difference in the day’s only Premier League encounter, propelling Ruben Amorim’s side to a season-high fifth place in the table.
It was a goal that came somewhat against the run of play, with Eddie Howe’s men looking the more threatening side.
Diogo Dalot’s lofted ball into the box found Nick Woltemade, whose header dropped perfectly for Dorgu to fire past Aaron Ramsdale with devastating precision.
Patrick Dorgu scored the only goal of the match as United claimed victory
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Amorim’s tactical approach proved fascinating, as the Portuguese boss deployed a flat back four for the first time even when defending.
The decision to station Dorgu on the right wing rather than in his usual position was a masterstroke that paid dividends.
Mason Mount operated as the chief playmaker in attacking midfield, and the former Chelsea midfielder was brilliant throughout before being hooked at half-time for a suspected injury.
He combined hard work with genuine creativity, nearly setting up Casemiro with a corner that the Brazilian headed wide from an unmarked position.
Mount’s pressing also won possession from Lewis Hall, immediately feeding Dorgu to keep Newcastle on the back foot.
United landed a much-needed 1-0 win, keeping a rare clean sheet in the process
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Newcastle seized control after the interval, exposing United’s familiar tendency to switch off at the start of the second half.
The visitors forced a flurry of corners and looked increasingly dangerous. Fabian Schar’s snapshot was blocked by Dorgu, while Lewis Hall beat Manuel Ugarte before crashing a shot against the crossbar.
United’s lack of cutting edge in possession became painfully apparent. Joelinton had the goal at his mercy but fired straight at goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Joe Willock squandered another opportunity, and Anthony Gordon somehow missed a clear chance.
Schar appealed for handball against Lisandro Martínez, but VAR ruled the ball struck his underarm inadvertently.
United’s victory came despite a significant injury crisis, with seven players unavailable for selection.
Ruben Amorim is missing a number of key players
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Captain Bruno Fernandes missed just the fourth match of his five-year, 308-appearance United career.
Matthijs De Ligt, Harry Maguire, and Kobbie Mainoo were also sidelined through injury, while Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Amad Diallo are away on Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Lisandro Martinez wore the armband in his first start since February, leading the team off to applause at half-time.
“What a FABULOUS HIT!”
Patrick Dorgu scores his first goal for Manchester United and what a way to score it! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/0Th4FRYd1c
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 26, 2025
Amorim’s bench featured five academy youngsters, including the Fletcher twins Jack and Tyler, who appeared together in a matchday squad for the first time.
Jack came on for Mount at half-time as United somehow held firm.
