Manchester United recovered from an early setback to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 in their pre-season clash in Stockholm today as Bryan Mbeumo’s second-half brace gve the Red Devils a well-earned victory.
First half
United made the worst possible start when Atletico took the lead inside five minutes. A teasing ball into the penalty area from Arnau Ortiz beat everyone to find the far corner, leaving Tom Heaton with little chance and handing the Spanish side an early advantage.
The goal came against the run of play as United dominated possesion with Santos and Mount pulling the strings in midfield. Luke Shaw tested Jan Oblak from distance before Amad came close with a well-struck free-kick that the experienced goalkeeper did well to turn away. Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro also threatened from set-pieces, while Bryan Mbeumo narrowly failed to connect with an inviting cross after an excellent move down the left.
At the other end, Heaton remained alert to deny Atletico a second shortly before the interval, ensuring United went into the break trailing by just a single goal despite enjoying long spells of possession.
Second Half
United’s pressure finally paid off early in the second half. Shea Lacey had been a threat right from the beginning and his persistence paid off when he won a penalty with some deft footwork just inside the area. Mbeumo stepped up to calmly send Oblak the wrong way from the spot to level the score.
Carrick’s men had the bit between their teeth and continued to dictate the tempo against Diego Simeone’s side. The midfield pair were outstanding, with Mount knitting play together intelligently while Santos snuffed out Spanish attacks early whenever Atletico attempted to counter.
United’s dominance was rewarded again when Mbeumo grabbed his second of the afternoon. Substitute Jack Fletcher made a superb interception down the right flank and took it to the byeline before crossing to the near post. It took a slight deflection that put it right in Mbeumo’s path, who knocked it in from close range.
The last 10 minutes saw the debut of 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, to the delight of the travelling faithful. He showed some good touches but was unable to get his shot away as the full-time whistle approached. Jim Thwaites also came on for his debut.
Featured image by Michael Regan/Getty Images
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