Brentford reignited their push for European qualification with a stunning 4–3 comeback win over Manchester United at the Gtech Community Stadium, thanks to a dominant performance capped by a brace from Kevin Schade.
With only three Premier League games remaining, the Bees’ explosive victory keeps their continental ambitions alive — and puts more pressure on United amid fresh injury worries and tactical questions.
First Half Drama: Mount Strikes, But Brentford Hit Back
United started brightly, with Mason Mount opening the scoring in the 14th minute after meeting a low cross from Alejandro Garnacho — only his second goal since joining the Red Devils.
But Brentford quickly struck back in the 27th minute when Mikkel Damsgaard’s cross deflected off Luke Shaw and found the net, leveling the match. The United skipper endured a torrid evening, struggling to lead a heavily rotated side fielded by manager Ruben Amorim.
Just minutes later, Schade rose above Tyler Fredricson to nod in Damsgaard’s delivery, putting Brentford ahead 2–1 and sending the home crowd into raptures.
United’s players were incensed that play hadn’t been halted when Matthijs de Ligt pulled up injured during the build-up to the goal.
Schade Shines as Bees Dominate Second Half
Brentford continued their charge in the second half, with Bryan Mbeumo delivering a pinpoint cross in the 70th minute for Schade, who headed home his second and Brentford’s third.
Just four minutes later, Yoane Wissa made it 4–1, latching onto Michael Kayode’s clever pass to finish clinically as United’s defence unraveled.
Despite late goals from Garnacho (82’) — a brilliant long-range effort — and Amad Diallo in injury time, Brentford held firm to secure all three points in one of the season’s most entertaining clashes.
De Ligt Injury Adds to United’s Woes
A major concern for United is the condition of Matthijs de Ligt, who limped off clutching his hamstring just weeks after recovering from an ankle injury. With a Europa League semi-final looming, manager Ruben Amorim admitted he was “really concerned” about the Dutch international’s availability.
Amorim had made significant squad rotations, starting only three players from their recent 3–0 win over Athletic Bilbao — a decision that ultimately backfired.
Brentford Making History
With 62 league goals this season — bettered only by Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Newcastle — Brentford are peaking at just the right time. Schade’s double took him to 10 goals, making him the third Brentford player to hit double digits in the league, a feat no other Premier League club has matched this season.
With remaining fixtures against Ipswich, Fulham, and Wolves, Brentford’s dream of qualifying for Europe for the first time since 1992 is very much alive.
