Thu Jan 16 22:42:29 UTC 2025: ## Manchester United Escapes Embarrassment, Amad’s Hat-Trick Steals Victory
**Old Trafford, England** – Manchester United avoided a humiliating defeat against bottom-of-the-table Southampton thanks to a stunning late hat-trick by Amad Diallo. The young Ivorian scored all three of his goals in the final ten minutes, turning the game on its head and securing a 3-1 victory for the Red Devils.
Southampton, who had dominated the first hour, took a deserved lead in the first half through an own goal by Manuel Ugarte, after a corner kick. United goalkeeper Andre Onana, despite making several impressive saves in the first half, could not prevent the goal. Southampton’s performance in the opening 45 minutes was their best away showing of the season, outshooting United 5-0 on target.
However, the tide turned dramatically in the final stages. Amad’s explosive performance, including three goals in quick succession, rescued a point for manager Ruben Amorim whose team had struggled for much of the game. Amorim admitted his team’s performance was far from satisfactory, highlighting the need for significant improvement. Southampton manager Ivan Juric criticized his team’s lack of fight and mentality in the closing stages.
The victory moves Manchester United up to 12th place, but they remain four points outside the top half. Southampton’s struggles continue, leaving them firmly in the relegation battle.
Amad’s remarkable feat makes him the third player in Premier League history to score a hat-trick in the final ten minutes of a match, following in the footsteps of Manchester United legends Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Wayne Rooney. He also became the youngest player to score a hat-trick at Old Trafford in the Premier League.
Elsewhere, Napoli’s approach for Alejandro Garnacho was dismissed by Manchester United, who are not actively seeking to sell the young winger. Brighton secured a 2-0 win against Ipswich, moving back into the top half of the table.
First Piper 