“I Know I Scored the Opening Goal, But His Efforts Made the Biggest Difference” – Joshua Zirkzee Praises Man United Star With 97% Pass Accuracy Who Delivered a Near-Perfect Performance Against Crystal Palace

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has drawn widespread attention—not only for scoring the crucial opening goal in United’s victory over Crystal Palace, but for his unexpected humility after the match. While fans and pundits were eager to heap praise on the young striker for his clinical finishing, Zirkzee redirected the spotlight toward a teammate he believes was the true architect of the win.

Speaking confidently but with genuine admiration, the Dutchman stated:

“I know I managed to score the starting goal, but his efforts made the most difference in the match. He definitely deserves the Man of the Match.”

According to Zirkzee, the unnamed United midfielder—who recorded an astonishing 97% pass completion rate—was the heartbeat of the team, dictating the tempo, controlling transitions, and ensuring that United maintained authority in midfield throughout the encounter.

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A Midfield Masterclass Behind United’s Victory

While Zirkzee’s goal lit the spark, it was the midfielder’s orchestration that kept United in control. His near-perfect passing accuracy highlighted both his composure and his tactical intelligence, especially in a game where Crystal Palace attempted to disrupt United’s rhythm with aggressive pressing.

Observers noted that he:

• Controlled the pace of the game with calm, simple but decisive distribution

• Broke Palace’s pressing lines with cleverly angled passes

• Provided defensive cover during transitions

• Created attacking platforms by releasing Zirkzee and the wide forwards quickly

• Made zero recorded errors leading to danger

In a match where precision was needed to unlock a compact and physical Palace side, his contribution proved vital.

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Zirkzee’s Moment—But Not His Spotlight

Zirkzee’s goal was a thing of beauty—sharp movement, intelligent positioning, and a calm finish. Yet, despite his performance earning praise from the coaching staff and supporters, the striker made it clear that individual glory was not his priority.

He emphasized that football is “a team sport where the hardest work doesn’t always make the highlight reels.”

The young striker’s comments reflect a positive shift in the dressing room culture—one centered on unity, accountability, and collective growth.

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Fans and Pundits React to the Midfielder’s Performance

Social media erupted after the match, with many fans echoing Zirkzee’s sentiments:

• “A 97% completion rate is insane. He controlled the entire tempo.”

• “United finally have a midfielder who plays with maturity beyond his years.”

• “Give him the armband in a few years.”

Even rival fans acknowledged the level of composure the midfielder displayed.

Analysts on post-match panels also highlighted how his presence allowed United to stay structured, even when Palace attempted to wrest control through physical duels and aggressive counters.

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A New United Rising?

This performance—combined with Zirkzee’s humility—paints a promising picture for Manchester United’s ongoing rebuild. A striker willing to share acclaim and a midfielder performing with elite precision signals growth, maturity, and tactical development within the squad.

If the midfielder continues delivering such commanding displays, he may soon become one of the first names on the team sheet—and Zirkzee’s words may prove prophetic.

For now, United fans can revel in a well-deserved victory and the emergence of a midfield gem whose quiet brilliance made all the difference.