Some scrumptious performances from Brazilian stars were on display at the end of Matchday 15 of the Premier League, leaving fans wanting for more.
Fred
Ralf Rangnick’s first game in charge of the Red Devils saw United edge past a well-organised Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Often criticized Brazilian midfielder Fred emerged as an unlikely hero, scoring the game’s lone goal. With 13 minutes remaining and the match headed for a goalless draw, the former Internacional player produced a moment of magic that sent Old Trafford into a state of euphoria.
Loitering on the edge of the box, Fred received a pass from Greenwood. Without taking a single touch, the midfielder managed to curl the ball into the back of the net, beating a diving Vincente Guaita on its way.
The fact that Fred produced the goal from his weaker right foot was no less stunning. It was the Brazilian’s only second goal this season, which makes the stunning strike all the more special.
The decisive moment in #MUNCRY, courtesy of @Fred08Oficial! ⚽#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 5, 2021
United held onto the slender lead and gave Rangnick a winning start that saw the team move up to sixth place on the table.
Lucas Moura
In a related context, another Brazilian made headlines during the Spurs vs Norwich fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Having won their previous two encounters, Conte’s men seemed ready to extend their winning streak. And it took them just 10 minutes to open the score.
Receiving the ball from Davinson Sanchez midway in the opposing half, Lucas Moura took a sharp turn and slipped past Billy Gilmour with a sublime piece of skill.
After a quick one-two with Son, the former Sao Paulo player unleashed a shot from outside the box that whizzed past Tim Krul in an instant.
Simply breathtaking, Lucas Moura. 👏 pic.twitter.com/JsYOi2t9ui
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) December 5, 2021
Spurs added two more goals through Sanchez and Son and sailed past the Canaries with ease for three straight wins in the league. Conte’s team is now placed fifth in the league, 2 points behind a Champions Leagues spot.