Lisandro Martinez was the hero as Manchester United defeated Fulham 1-0 in the Premier League on Sunday night. The Argentine scored out of nowhere to decide a low-quality affair, while youngster Toby Collyer also impressed from the bench.
Ruben Amorim made five changes to his side from the midweek win over Rangers, with Andre Onana selected in goal and Rasmus Hojlund replacing Joshua Zirkzee in attack. Fulham started well and sent an early warning shot when Alex Iwobi fired a low effort at goal, while Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez both made important blocks in their box.
The hosts dominated the first-half encounter but rarely troubled Onana despite their dominance. There was even less goal threat from Amorim's side who did not muster a single effort on target in the first half until the 42nd minute.
United were still quiet after the restart and it wasn't long before Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro were introduced in an attempt to liven up the appearance and it gave them a greater presence in the match. It always felt like a moment of individual brilliance would be required to make the difference and it came out of nowhere when an ambitious effort from Lisandro Martinez took a deflection to give his side the lead.
Fulham pushed for a late equaliser and almost got one only for substitute Collyer to clear a header off the line in the dying minutes of the match to ensure his side held on for a precious three points. They almost had a second deep into stoppage time only for Amad Diallo’s effort to be ruled out for offside.
Here is how we rated the United players in the win:

1. LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 26: Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Manchester United FC at Craven Cottage on January 26, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Lisandro Martinez scored out of nowhere as Manchester United beat Fulham | Getty Images

2. Andre Onana - 6
Only had a few simple saves to make but did so with relative ease. A quiet return to the team. | Getty Images

3. Matthijs de Ligt - 6
A few important clearances helped contain the Fulham threat. He was taken off to manage fitness. | AFP via Getty Images

4. Harry Maguire - 7
He was able to shine in his best role as a no-nonsense central defender. Made some key contributions. | AFP via Getty Images
