Manchester United continued their impressive run in the National League Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Rochdale, securing their third consecutive win. A spectacular 82nd-minute goal from Amir Ibragimov ensured the Reds remained unbeaten, keeping them at the top of Group B.
The match, played at Rochdale’s Crown Oil Arena in front of a crowd of 3,681, saw United dominate significant periods but struggle to create clear scoring opportunities.
Having already defeated Forest Green Rovers 3-2 and Altrincham 4-0 earlier in the group stage, the young Reds showed resilience and determination to maintain their perfect record.
Rochdale began the game on the front foot, creating an early chance that forced United goalkeeper Dermot Mee into action. Mee produced a crucial save in a one-on-one situation to keep the game goalless.
United responded well, creating opportunities of their own. Ethan Wheatley tested Rochdale’s goalkeeper Brad Kelly, while Jack Moorhouse had a powerful shot blocked from the edge of the box.
Wheatley also connected with a left-wing cross from Ethan Ennis, but Kelly comfortably saved his effort. Despite several promising attacks, United struggled to find the finishing touch.
After a goalless first half, United took control of the game in the second period. Wheatley was in excellent positions multiple times, but his finishing let him down.
One of the best chances came when Jack Fletcher’s cut-back from the left flank found Wheatley in the six-yard box, only for the striker to shoot over the bar.
Manager Travis Binnion made three substitutions in the 69th minute, bringing on Tommy Rowe, Jacob Devaney, and Bendito Mantato to inject fresh energy. Later, Chido Obi also entered the game, replacing Wheatley in the 80th minute.
The changes paid off as Obi played a key role in setting up the decisive goal. He passed the ball to Amir Ibragimov, who had space to shoot from the edge of the box.
The 16-year-old forward made no mistake, sending the ball into the bottom left corner and sparking jubilant celebrations among the players and fans.
United managed to hold onto their slim lead for the remaining minutes, ensuring they took all three points. With this win, they now sit comfortably at the top of Group B with nine points from three games.
United’s final group-stage game is scheduled for late January against Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park. A good result in that match will secure their place in the knockout stages.
Match Summary
United XI: Mee; Kamason, Kingdon, Jackson, Murray (Rowe 69); Gore (Devaney 69), Moorhouse (Mantato 69); Ibragimov, J. Fletcher, Ennis; Wheatley (Obi 80).
Unused Subs: Murdock, Munro, Missin.
Goal: Ibragimov 82.
Booked: Jackson.