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Manchester United played a disappointing 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon.
Although Man United put in a convincing performance in the first half, they found themselves behind from the moment the second 45 minutes started.
Even though there was plenty to criticize about United’s overall performance, one player who proved impactful and reliable was Casemiro.
A deadly attack threat
Casemiro was undoubtedly United’s best midfielder, if not striker, too.
He was a constant threat to Forest’s defense and made four shots, one of which was on target and two of which were blocked.
In the 34th minute he produced a powerful header from a corner to put United ahead, showing his attacking ability and great situational awareness.
Casemiro made two promising shots late in the second half, one of which came from the edge of the penalty area and was blocked, while the other ended up in the side netting.
Yet it was not only his attacking intent that attracted attention.
The beating heart of United’s midfield
Casemiro was the ideal midfielder against Forest, with all three of his tackles proving successful.
He completed 51 of 62 passes (82% accuracy), and 97% of his passes inside United’s half found their target.
The Brazilian won four of his eight ground duels and six of his eleven aerial battles.
All in all, Casemiro was key to United’s performance, with the team heading for certain defeat without his contributions.
| Player | Casemiro |
|---|---|
| Goals | 1 |
| Expected goals (xG) | 0.21 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Expected assists (xA) | 0.27 |
| Key cards | 3 |
| Cross (accurate) | 1 (0) |
| Precise passes | 51/62 (82%) |
| Passes in opposition half (according to) | 21/32 (66%) |
| Passing in own half (according to) | 30/31 (97%) |
| Long balls (accurate) | 3/6 (50%) |
| Total shots | 4 |
| Expected Goals on Track (xGOT) | 0.69 |
| Shots on target | 1 |
| Shots blocked | 2 |
| Touches | 82 |
| Failed touches | 2 |
| Dribbles (successful) | 1 (1) |
| Property lost | 15 |
| Tackles (won) | 3 (3) |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Clearances | 1 |
| Blocked shots | 1 |
| Chargebacks | 8 |
| Ground duels (won) | 8 (4) |
| Aerial duels (won) | 11 (6) |
| Violations | 3 |
| Dribbled past | 2 |
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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