Aston Villa returned home from Old Trafford with all three points courtesy of Kortney Hause header in the 88th minute of play. This is Villa's first victory over Manchester United since December 2009.
Manchester United suffered a first loss in this season Premier League.
All eyes were on Cristiano Ronaldo, who had scored more Premier League goals against Villa than any other side during his initial spell at Old Trafford, with four goals in three competitive games. In the tenth minute, he went on a single attempt after receiving a pass from countryman Bruno Fernandes and nutmegging an opponent, only to fire wide from 30 yards.
Villa, while being outsiders, were not star-struck, and they created several early opportunities for themselves. Matt Targett grabbed onto a clever ball from Matty Cash inside the box in the 16th minute, but he could only send a nervy attempt over the bar. Emiliano Martinez, on the other hand, was instrumental in keeping the game level until the break, blocking a typical Harry Maguire header practically on the stroke of half-time.
SECOND HALF
Manchester United had a rough start to the second half as Villa grew in confidence and pinned United back, unable to affect the visitors.
United Captain Maguire had a leg injury and was limping around when he was dragged down in the box by Konsa as he sought to climb for a cross in the 64th minute.
Referee Mike Dean failed to award a penalty, infuriating the Old Trafford crowd, who erupted in a roar.
When Greenwood saw a shot saved, they were almost rewarded.
After 66 minutes, Maguire was unable to continue and was replaced by Victor Lindelof. The Reds were under siege again as Sweden international settled in, and Watkins had a shot wonderfully saved by De Gea.
As the Reds tried for a goal to shift the tide, Greenwood had a series of drives denied by a Villa defence that was standing firm.
After 75 minutes, Paul Pogba drove towards the rearguard, and his footwork provided an opening, which Emiliano Martinez calmly stopped.
The Stretford End urged Cavani's introduction, and it seems Solskjaer shared their sentiments, as the Uruguayan replaced Scott McTominay in the 81st minute.
But, before Cavani could get involved in the offensive end, he was called upon to defend a corner in the 88th minute, but he couldn't get ahead of Hause, who headed the set piece in at the near post.
As the match neared its thrilling conclusion, the same couple was at the centre of the next major incident.
Substitute Cavani flicked on Fernandes' cross, and his header struck Villa scorer Kortney Hause in the arm. Referee Dean immediately pointed to the spot, and VAR confirmed his decision
But United's chance was squandered when Fernandes' normally dead-eye penalty kick flew far over the bar and into a horrified Stretford End.
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