Patrick Dorgu's first goal for Manchester United secured a 1-0 victory against Newcastle United on Boxing Day, lifting the Red Devils to fifth place in the Premier League. In a match where United were missing key players due to injury and international duty, the 21-year-old Dane's stunning first-half volley proved to be the difference.

The game, played at Old Trafford, saw Manchester United without their talismanic captain Bruno Fernandes, alongside other first-team absentees. Despite the depleted squad, and an unusual back-four formation, United started brightly. An early chance fell to Casemiro, who headed over from a Mason Mount corner. Dorgu himself was involved early on, sending in a dangerous cross that Benjamin Šeško failed to capitalize on. Newcastle, unchanged from their previous draw against Chelsea, responded with Bruno Guimarães forcing a save from United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Dorgu's decisive moment came in the 24th minute. After a long throw into the box was partially cleared by Nick Woltemade, the ball fell to Dorgu, who unleashed a first-time left-footed volley into the bottom corner. It was his first goal in 38 appearances for the club. Shortly after scoring, Dorgu nearly had a second, but his low drive was parried away by Newcastle's goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Newcastle pressed for an equalizer in the second half, with Lewis Hall striking the crossbar with a long-range effort. Anthony Gordon also had a good chance but missed the target. United had opportunities to extend their lead, with Diogo Dalot firing over from close range. A late, powerful shot from Joelinton was well saved by Lammens, ensuring United maintained their slender lead.

Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United manager, will be particularly pleased with how his young team managed to hold on to their lead, showcasing the strength of United's academy with five academy players on the bench. This win marks the end of a three-match winless streak at Old Trafford for Manchester United.

The match wasn't without its contentious moments, as Newcastle had a penalty appeal turned down after a possible handball by Lisandro Martinez inside the box. VAR reviewed the incident but determined the ball had come off Martinez's chest first. Despite Newcastle's pressure, particularly in the second half, United's defense held firm, securing a vital three points.