LONDON — Manchester United’s defensive frailties were laid bare in the most embarrassing fashion as Leicester romped to a 5-3 win over Louis van Gaal’s shell-shocked side at the King Power Stadium.
United’s stellar cast of attacking talent allowed them to race into a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Robin van Persie, Ander Herrera and Angel di Maria, who scored a stunning chip over Kasper Schmeichel.
But, however, impressive United’s Galacticos are on the attack, the fact remains this squad is woefully sub-standard at the back and Leicester took full advantage to record their first home victory over the 20-time champions since 1985.
Leonardo Ulloa headed in at the back post in the first half and David Nugent found the net from the penalty spot after a needless foul by Rafael on Jamie Vardy.
Esteban Cambiasso equalised on his full debut before Vardy slotted the ball past David De Gea after a counterattack in which United’s defence was all over the place.
Tyler Blackett was then sent off for hacking Vardy down in the box and Ulloa converted the penalty to make it 5-3. The defeat brought Van Gaal back down to earth following his first victory against QPR last week. Much work clearly has to be done if he is to achieve his target of a top-three finish.
QPR dropped deep and allowed United to come at them last week, but Van Gaal’s men were not afforded the same luxury at the King Power Stadium as Leicester pressed from the first whistle. Jonny Evans denied Ulloa twice early on, first with a clever header and then with a fine block, which clearly hurt the centre-back.
It did not take long for Di Maria to start causing trouble at the other end though. The former Real Madrid man drove at the Leicester defence and slotted Van Persie in behind, but Schmeichel ran out and blocked the Dutchman’s shot.
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— ESPN
