For the second time in three days, Manchester United will play at Old Trafford, hosting Brighton and Hove Albion in the English Premier League on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming encounter.
Manchester United come into this clash on the back of a 3-1 victory over Southampton on Thursday, courtesy of a stunning hat-trick from Ivorian forward Amad Diallo. This marked their first regulation-time win in seven games, the last being a triumph over Manchester City on December 15, 2024.
The win lifted Ruben Amorim’s side from 15th to 12th in the table, with 26 points from 21 matches. They now face Brighton, who are five points ahead in ninth place and firmly in the hunt for European qualification.
Brighton, meanwhile, secured a 2-0 win against Ipswich Town on Thursday, thanks to goals from Georginio Rutter and Kaoru Mitoma. Notably, Mitoma was also on the scoresheet when Brighton defeated Manchester United 2-1 in the reverse fixture earlier this season. Joao Pedro added another goal in that game, while Diallo netted a consolation for the Red Devils.
Manchester United recent form analysis
Manchester United have recorded just one regulation-time win in their last five matches, drawing twice and losing twice across all competitions. During this period, the Red Devils have managed to score six goals while conceding eight—far from an ideal performance.
Last five games: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses.
Latest result: Manchester United 3-1 Southampton.
Brighton recent form analysis
Under manager Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton have shown consistency with two wins and three draws in their last five matches across all competitions. During this stretch, the Seagulls have scored nine goals while conceding just three, showcasing a solid defensive run.
Last five games: 2 wins, 3 draws.
Latest result: Ipswich Town 0-2 Brighton.
Head-to-head (last five matches)
- Brighton 2-1 Manchester United
- Brighton 0-2 Manchester United
- Manchester United 1-3 Brighton
- Brighton 1-0 Manchester United
- Brighton 0 (6-7) 0 Manchester United
Prediction for Manchester United vs Brighton
Encounters between Manchester United and Brighton have been closely contested in recent times, with Brighton enjoying the upper hand in the last five meetings. However, Manchester United are showing signs of recovery, having avoided defeat in their last three matches.
Punters are advised to back Both Teams to Score (YES) with odds of 1.57 on 1xbet. For a safer option, consider Double Chance (1) with odds of 1.34 on 1xbet.
Player to watch
Yankuba Minteh: The Gambian youngster has been one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season. Known for his blistering pace, power, and dribbling ability, Minteh has been a standout performer on Brighton’s wing, contributing two goals and two assists in 18 games. The 20-year-old will be a key player for Hurzeler’s side as they face Manchester United on Sunday.
Best odds and betting tips
Here are the best betting tips for this match:
- Both Teams to Score (YES): Odds of 1.57 on 1xbet.
- Double Chance (1): Odds of 1.34 on 1xbet.
