Old Trafford hosted Antonio Conte and his men in a return EPL clash. It ended in ecstasy for Manchester United as goals from the L-team (Lukaku & Lingard) sealed a 'Sunday Jollof-rice' victory for United.
These are the five (5) things ManUtdNaijaFM learnt from the clash:
1. MOURINHO HEARD THE FANS' CRY
The boss set up his team like a father who had heard the cry of his sons; starting Pogba on the left side of a midfield three and playing Alexis 'Balogun' Sanchez on the right/middle in a rotating 4-3-3 formation.
It was a tactical masterpiece that left fans asking "So United can play like this? Why all the long balls in recent times? Where dis this script come from?".
2. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A LONG TIME.
2. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A LONG TIME.
For the first time in a long time, United left the 'lob-the-ball-to-Fellaini/Lukaku' tactic at home and played the ball on the ground with some improved constructive play.
For the first time in a long time, fans didn't have time to yawn during the game.
For the first in a long time, we saw a shaky De Gea; spilling balls and conceding a goal that was considered saved.
For the first time in a long time, we saw José 'Uchenna' Mourinho make spot-on substitutions as Lingard became a super sub again.
3. NEMANJA 'AGU' MATIC.
Once again, the Serbian was not 'FANTA-astic'. He was absolutely 'PALMWINE-stic'. In Naija language we would say "E ready come".
He played the perfect midfield fulcrum role, keeping possession, breaking play and dictating play from deep. Indeed he was true to his name- Agu (Lion).
4. BRAVE SCOTT McTOMINAY.
Playing on the right side of a midfield three, United's latest kindergarten graduate Scott McTominay had a wonderful game. He clearly watched Herrera's "Eden-Hazard-Chewing-Gum" clip of last season.
He gave Hazard a good run for his money, bullying him, eventually leading to his substitution in the 2nd half. He shall be called Scott McTom-Tom for his sweet display today.
5. THE YOKE WAS BROKEN
Before today, Romelu 'Timaya' Lukaku had failed to score against any of the 'big six' teams in over 900 minutes, after managing 21 shots in those games.
But today, United's 'Striker-in-chief' broke the yoke and finished off a beautifully crafted chance. To add 'Stew to his Sunday rice', he gave a wonderful assist for the winning goal.
IN THE END, Chelsea came to Old Trafford, they saw, did 'initial gra-gra', but were finally Conquered. Kudos to Lingard for chanelling the Black Panther spirit to score the winner.
UP NEXT, Crystal Palace; Same time, same station, next week Monday......Stay tuned to ManUtdNaijaFM.
OPINION POLL
Who was your man of the match? Lets have your thoughts.
GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED.