Wembley was set for the team from Manchester as they collided with the ones from South Coast as Claude Puel’s Southampton clashed horns against Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United and the final of the EFL cup just did not disappoint. Early goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Jesse Lingard made it seem like United’s day until Gabbiadini put in a terrific show of awareness and tidiness to pull Southampton back in the tie.
The tie was only won from a dramatic Ibrahimovic header minutes before stoppage time. Jose Mourinho claimed his third EFL cup drawing level with Clough and Sir Alex Ferguson and became the first United manager to win a trophy in the first season while Ibrahimovic gathered his 31st honour.
The Best And The Worst Manchester United Players Rated In Their EFL Cup Victory Over Southampton
GK: David De Gea – 7/10
Had to make two crucial saves to prevent Southampton from getting a grip. Called in time and again and did well.
RB: Antonio Valencia – 6/10
Took quite a while to settle in and was getting caught off guard but grew into the game well at an important time. Needs to get better, though.
CB: Eric Bailly – 6.5/10
His pace and the ability to play the ball came in handy but the defence was woeful today. With Manchester City just around the corner, improvement is a necessity.
CB: Chris Smalling – 5/10
Failed to close down Gabbiadini when the forward struck his second goal and as a captain didn’t really organise the defence well. Disappointing.
LB: Marcos Rojo – 6.5/10
Took time but he has definitely turned a leaf under Mourinho. Physical side came in handy and played a major part in United’s second goal.
CM: Ander Herrera – 7/10
Snappy and a tedious player to deal with for the opposition as usual but work rate was simply fantastic. Provided a pinpoint cross for the match-winning goal. An integral part of the team without a doubt!
CM: Paul Pogba – 6/10
Has to stop with the fancy play but ball control at times was phenomenal and he was a presence in the midfield.
RM: Juan Mata – 4/10
Not his usual self clearly coming back from Spain. United fans will be confident he will improve.
CAM: Jesse Lingard – 6/10
Nearly got himself sent off but slotted home clinically for the goal when the chance came.
LM: Anthony Martial – 5.5/10
Subdued for the majority of the game but showed glimpses of what he can do. There is a lot of scope for development.
ST: Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 9/10
Simply terrific on the night with two priceless goals and brilliant hold up play. What a signing! Man of the match.
