Why Matic’s First Goal Is So Spectacular

Nemanja Matic emerged the hero as Manchester United shocked Crystal Palace in an amazing comeback story at Selhurst Park. The Serbia international scored in the stoppage time to send United above Liverpool ahead of their forthcoming clash this weekend.

The former Chelsea man was slow in getting his first goal but he continued with his excellent defensive work in the middle for the Red Devils. His attempt came off the woodwork and entered the net after contact with Benfica goalkeeper Mile Svilar in the Champion League group stage game in October.

Against Palace, he could have scored earlier but Christian Benteke denied him. After United fought their way back into the game from 2-0 down, Matic added the gloss that handed them three crucial points.

For Matic, his few goals have always been quite spectacular and well timed. He was the one whose goal hurt Tottenham when Chelsea faced them at Wembley last year. He scored an impressive overhead kick against Portugal back in 2013 as his debut goal for Serbia. He has also made the Puskas shortlist for his left footed volley for Benfica against Porto.

Man United have a rich history so they have seen late goals that changed the course of a game. Dion Dublin netted the only goal that tore Southampton at the newly formed Dell competition. Chris Eagles’ goal against Everton in 2007 will be remembered for helping the club move closer to the title. Federico Macheda’s famous goal against Aston Villa in 2009 is another that won’t be forgotten for many more years. Wes Brown scored his first league goal after over a century of appearances to give United full points against Newcastle. Lee Martin waited two years before scoring only his second goal in the FA Cup final in 1990.

Well Matic would also make history as one of the players who rarely score but always net dramatic goals when they do. He made his first United goal in his 38th appearance a winner.