Manchester United fought back from two goals behind to beat 10-man Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford in a thrilling Saturday afternoon encounter.
After a historically bad start, which resulted in goals for Taiwo Awoniyi and Willy Boly, United found themselves behind by two goals after just four minutes for the first time in Premier League history.
After Christian Eriksen had equalized for the Spurs by tapping in a low cross from Marcus Rashford, and after Casemiro had missed an open net just before halftime, the Brazilian brought his team back on even terms by bundling in Bruno Fernandes’ header across goal off of a brilliant pass from Rashford.
Ten Hag, United’s manager, spoke highly of the Portuguese captain’s motivational talents in the lead-up to the game, and Fernandes did not disappoint.
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Manchester United failed to capitalize on a second-half penalty kick after Forest captain Joe Worrall was sent off for a foul on Fernandes on the edge of the area, but the Portuguese kept his cool to score the game-winning goal 14 minutes from time after Danilo fouled Marcus Rashford.
United will be pleased with the three points, even though they did nothing to allay concerns about their roster, which included Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, and attacker Rasmus Hojlund, none of whom played.
Since Anthony Martial and substitute Jadon Sancho took turns playing the number nine position, Rashford was shifted to a wide position and became a more dangerous and aggressive player as a result.
Antony, on the right, likewise teased the Forest defense, albeit his final products were often unsatisfactory.
Manchester United, however, summoned all of their inner strength to pull off the type of come-from-behind victory that has been all too common at this stadium over the years.