Spanish-born Nigerian striker Victor Musa inspired Manchester United’s Under-21s to a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Friday evening, scoring a brilliant brace to secure the win.

The first half was an even contest, with both sides creating opportunities but unable to break the deadlock.

Southampton started brightly, with William Merry volleying over the bar in the 15th minute, while United’s Jack Fletcher and Jim Thwaites tested goalkeeper Hugo Fisher with efforts that failed to find the net.

Victor Musa also saw a close-range attempt blocked, leaving the half goalless despite the home side’s growing momentum.

The second half belonged to Musa. On 49 minutes, Jayce Fitzgerald was fouled on the left flank, and Jack Fletcher’s free-kick found Musa, who produced a clinical header to open the scoring.

Ten minutes later, Musa doubled the lead after Fitzgerald’s persistence helped Fletcher deliver a perfect assist for the striker to score at the far post.

Southampton pulled one back through captain Tommy Dobson-Ventura, who followed up a saved header to reduce the deficit on 68 minutes.

Despite the visitors’ efforts to equalize, United remained in control, with Musa nearly completing a hat-trick when his shot struck the crossbar. 

The young Red Devils head into their next Premier League 2 clash on the back of a well-earned victory sparked by Musa.