Manchester United’s legendary Boxing Day record remains intact thanks to a moment of pure Danish magic. On Friday, December 26, 2025, Patrick Dorgu scored his first goal for the club—a goal of the season contender—to secure a vital 1–0 win over Newcastle United at a rocking Old Trafford.The victory moves Ruben Amorim’s side up to fifth in the Premier League table, leapfrogging Liverpool ahead of the weekend’s remaining fixtures.
The Goal: 24 Minutes of Pure Technique
In a match where United were missing several key starters, including the injured Bruno Fernandes, they needed an unlikely hero. They found one in the 21-year-old Dorgu.
The Setup: Following a long throw from Diogo Dalot, Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade attempted a headed clearance that only managed to loop high into the air toward the edge of the area.
The Strike: Dorgu watched the ball fall all the way onto his left foot, unleashing a blistering first-time volley that flashed past a helpless Aaron Ramsdale into the bottom corner.
The Quote: A jubilant Dorgu told reporters after the match: "It was a good hit. I didn't even know I could do that!"
Amorim’s Tactical Gamble: The Back Four
Facing a severe injury crisis, Ruben Amorim shocked the Stretford End by abandoning his trademark 3-4-2-1 system in favor of a pragmatic 4-2-3-1.
The New Defense: With no senior center-backs available, 20-year-old Ayden Heaven made his full debut alongside a returning Lisandro Martinez.
The Performance: Despite Newcastle dominating 76% of the possession in the second half, United’s makeshift backline held firm.
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens produced a string of vital saves, including a late fingertip stop from a Joelinton "piledriver."
Woodwork Woes: Both sides were denied by the frame of the goal; Benjamin Sesko clipped the bar for United, while Newcastle’s Lewis Hall rattled the underside of the crossbar with a long-range effort.
The Injury Toll: Mason Mount Added to the List
The only dark cloud over the victory was the half-time substitution of Mason Mount. Amorim confirmed after the game that Mount "felt something" and was withdrawn as a precaution.
With Fernandes and Mainoo already out, United’s midfield depth is now at a critical breaking point.
The Verdict: It wasn't the "Amorim-ball" fans expected, but it was a masterclass in defensive resilience. United have now won 23 Boxing Day matches—the most in Premier League history—and find themselves firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot.