Zirkzee scores winning goal on Premier League debut

In the first game of the 2024/25 English Premier League (EPL) season, Joshua Zirkzee secured a 1-0 victory for Manchester United by scoring the winning goal in the 87th minute against Fulham.

During Friday night’s match at Old Trafford, the young Dutch player led Erik ten Hag’s team to victory against a resilient Fulham side.

After being on the pitch for just 20 minutes, the 23-year-old, whose mother is Nigerian, charged into the box and expertly slotted home a low cross from Alejandro Garnacho, securing the only goal of the game.

As he danced in front of the Stretford End in celebration, it was evident that the burden of his £35 million price tag from Bologna was lifted.

Last season, Manchester United finished in eighth place on the English Premier League table, marking the club’s lowest position in its history. As the new season approaches, there is considerable pressure and high expectations on the team to improve their performance.

In the match, Ten Hag’s team secured three points, with both Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, both of whom are part of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, playing the full 90 minutes.

In their eighth consecutive season, United commenced their first league match at home. Initially subdued, United faced early pressure from Fulham. However, the Red Devils gradually asserted themselves, with Bruno Fernandes notably squandering two clear opportunities before both teams headed into the interval on level terms.

Manchester United exhibited a continued dominance in their pursuit to score. Notably, a new standout performer emerged as Zirkzee, demonstrating quick reflexes, capitalized on Garnacho’s delivery by securing the winning goal, three minutes before the end of the match.

Zirkzee is the fourth Dutchman to score for Man United and the 15th to do so in the EPL.

United’s win also marked the end of their losing streak against London clubs. The team will face Brighton & Hove Albion in their upcoming league match.