In a pulsating match that kept the Old Trafford crowd on the edge of their seats, Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved his enduring brilliance with a breathtaking free-kick goal that propelled Manchester United to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.In a pulsating match that kept the Old Trafford crowd on the edge of their seats, Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved his enduring brilliance with a breathtaking free-kick goal that propelled Manchester United to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. The match started at a blistering pace, with both teams creating early chances. Brighton, under the astute management of Roberto De Zerbi, played with verve and composure, but it was United who drew first blood in the 28th minute. Bruno Fernandes, the Portuguese magician, picked out Marcus Rashford with a defense-splitting pass. The England international used his electric pace to burst into the box before coolly slotting home to give United the lead. Brighton refused to be cowed and grew into the game. They found an equalizer in the 42nd minute through Danny Welbeck, the former United striker. Welbeck pounced on a loose ball inside the area and fired a low shot past David De Gea. As the second half commenced, the match remained in the balance. United pressed for a winning goal, but Brighton’s resolute defense held firm. However, in the 53rd minute, a moment of magic from Ronaldo changed the course of the game. The Portuguese superstar stepped up to take a free-kick from the edge of the box. With his trademark precision and power, he curled the ball over the Brighton wall and into the top corner. It was a goal that drew gasps of admiration from the crowd and left goalkeeper Robert Sanchez rooted to the spot. Brighton pushed hard for an equalizer, but United’s defense, marshaled by Raphael Varane, stood tall. The Red Devils held on to claim a hard-fought victory that kept them in contention for a top-four finish in the Premier League. Ronaldo’s free-kick goal was a testament to his enduring class and quality. At the age of 38, he continues to inspire and lead Manchester United to memorable victories. The Old Trafford faithful erupted in a standing ovation as he was substituted late in the game. The thrilling victory over Brighton was a timely reminder of Manchester United’s potential under Erik ten Hag. With Ronaldo at the helm, anything is possible for the Red Devils this season.
