100% duels won, 4 recoveries, 7 final third passes: United star was a solitary bright spark in 1-0 loss to Newcastle

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro performed admirably, but even he couldn’t save his team as they fell to a 2-1 loss at the hands of Newcastle on Wednesday evening. Unbeaten run over Heading into the meeting at St James’ Park, United were on an impressive streak of seven unbeaten games under caretaker boss Michael Carrick. There was plenty of confidence within the camp, but this was rocked in stoppage time of the first-half when Anthony Gordon gave Newcastle the lead from the spot-kick. The hosts were awarded the penalty after Bruno Fernandes was judged to have taken down Gordon inside the penalty area. However, the Red Devils restored parity just moments after through Casemiro. Fernandes made amends by delivering a sumptuous ball for the Brazil international, who headed home to make it 1-1 just before the break. United looked destined for a good second half, especially after Jacob Ramsey was given his marching orders for a second bookable offence. However, Carrick’s side showed an uncharacteristic lack of urgency and intensity, rarely threatening the Magpies’ goal. They were made to pay when substitute William Osula got the better of Tyrell Malacia to curl the ball into the back of the net in the 90th minute, securing all three points for Newcastle. It was a day to forget for most of the United squad, though Casemiro emerged with some credit. Casemiro’s performance During the time he was on the pitch before he was taken off and replaced by Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro won 100% of the aerial duels he delved into. He touched the ball 49 times and completed 29 of the 37 passes he attempted. Seven of his passes were delivered into the final third. Casemiro completed 11 carries and made four ball recoveries. He intercepted the ball on two occasions. He managed to find the back of the net with the one shot he fired. MetricValue Aerial duels won100% Touches49 Passes attempted37 Passes completed29 Carries11 Passes into the final third7 Ball recoveries4 Interceptions2 Shots1 Goals1 Casemiro’s game by numbers vs. Newcastle United: 100% aerial duels won 49 touches 37 passes attempted 29 passes completed 11 carries7 passes into the final third4 ball recoveries 2 interceptions 1 shot 1 goal A vital contribution to get Utd level. 🎯 pic.twitter.com/5SeSW5Ooio — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) March 4, 2026 Once again, United fell apart when the veteran was absent. With his departure confirmed for the end of the season, the club now faces the unenviable task of finding a replacement. Featured image George Wood via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!