Man Utd vs Ipswich 3-2: 10-man United hold off Ipswich with Maguire, De Ligt
Manchester United overcame an early defensive lapse and a first-half red card to secure a 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, with Harry Maguire’s decisive header ensuring three crucial points for Ruben Amorim’s side.
United recover after early setback
United fell behind in the fourth minute when Patrick Dorgu misjudged a long ball and inadvertently set up Jaden Philogene, who tapped into an empty net as goalkeeper Andre Onana failed to react in time.
However, Ipswich’s lead lasted only a few minutes as Rasmus Hojlund’s challenge forced Sam Morsy into heading Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick into his own goal.
United took the lead in the 17th minute when a scramble in the Ipswich box ended with Matthijs de Ligt firing into the roof of the net.
Despite their early dominance, United’s momentum was disrupted before half-time when Dorgu was sent off following a VAR review for a reckless challenge on Omari Hutchinson.
Ipswich made use of the numerical advantage, levelling through Philogene’s curling cross that found the far corner after Onana misjudged its flight
United’s set-piece strength key to victory
Despite being reduced to 10 men, United managed the game well, defending resolutely to deny Ipswich a late equaliser. Amorim’s side benefited from their dominance at set pieces, scoring three goals from dead-ball situations in a league game for the first time since 2016.
United responded immediately in the second half, with Maguire rising highest to head Fernandes’ corner past Alex Palmer and restore the lead.
United’s defensive frailties remain a concern, particularly Onana’s errors, but the team’s attacking efficiency ensured their first home league win in over a month. The victory moves United up the table, while Ipswich remain winless in 2025, deepening their relegation worries.
Ipswich defensive struggles continue
Ipswich’s inability to handle United’s set-piece threat proved costly, continuing a worrying trend for Kieran McKenna’s side. Having conceded 24 goals in their last eight league matches, Ipswich’s defensive shortcomings have left them struggling to secure points.
Despite bright moments, including strong performances from Liam Delap and Philogene, Ipswich’s inability to maintain defensive solidity raises concerns about their survival chances. They remain without a win in 2025, their worst start to a calendar year since 1970.
With relegation fears growing, McKenna will need to find solutions quickly to turn Ipswich’s form around before the season’s final stretch.