Brentford handed Manchester United another painful afternoon at the Gtech Community Stadium, securing a 3-1 win that piled pressure on Ruben Amorim’s uncertain future, Soccernet.ng reports.
Igor Thiago’s early double stunned the visitors inside 20 minutes, finishing first with a rasping half-volley after Jordan Henderson’s lofted pass before bundling in a second following Kevin Schade’s burst into the box.
Manchester United briefly clawed back through Benjamin Sesko, who netted his first goal for the club just before the half-hour mark.
The hosts, however, had too much energy, organisation, and conviction.
The lively Michael Kayode, starting his sixth straight Premier League game at right-back, was a constant outlet with his lung-busting runs and long throws that unsettled United’s defence.
Born in Italy to Nigerian parents of Yoruba descent, the 21-year-old continues to impress in a Brentford shirt, and his athleticism stood out again as he frustrated United’s left flank.
Caoimhín Kelleher preserved Brentford’s lead in the second half by saving Bruno Fernandes’ penalty, stretching low to his left to keep the stadium rocking. Of the seven spot-kicks he has faced in league action, he has now stopped four — an extraordinary record.
Super Eagles star Frank Onyeka entered in the 81st minute to tighten midfield, bringing his energy and composure to help Brentford see the game out.
The Nigerian midfielder has largely featured from the bench in the Premier League but remains a key figure in cup competitions. His short cameo on Saturday was vital in stabilising the Bees before Mathias Jensen rifled in the third goal deep into stoppage time.
Amorim cut a disconsolate figure on the United bench as his side slumped to their fourth defeat of the campaign. The Portuguese coach’s position is under scrutiny with his team sitting 12th, level on points with Brentford but behind on goals scored.
For Brentford, the win lifts them to 11th with renewed confidence and with Kayode and Onyeka both making important contributions.
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