Amad Diallo stole the spotlight with a sensational 12-minute hat-trick as Manchester United secured a 3-1 victory over Southampton at Old Trafford.
The match kicked off with a cautious start from both sides, but it was Southampton who took an unexpected lead just before halftime, courtesy of an own goal by Manuel Ugarte in the 43rd minute.
Ugarte, attempting to clear a dangerous cross, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving the visitors a brief advantage.
Manchester United, under new manager Rúben Amorim, struggled to break through Southampton’s defense for most of the second half.
However, young Ivorian winger Amad Diallo delivered a masterclass, scoring a hatrick, his first goal in the 82nd minute with a precise finish after a quick counter-attack. Diallo doubled his tally in the 90th minute with a composed strike inside the box. As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Diallo completed his hat-trick in the 94th minute, slotting home the following a mistake from a defensive error to seal the victory for the Red Devils.
Amorim, beaming with pride at full-time, praised Diallo’s performance, saying, “Amad showed today why he’s such a special talent. This is the kind of character and quality we need to succeed.”
Old Trafford erupted in celebration as fans left the stadium delighted with a memorable night led by their young star.