MNU 2-2 EVE: Match Review As Manchester United Win Premier League Summer Series
Manchester United were crowned champions of the Premier League Summer Series following a hard-fought 2-2 draw with Everton at the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Although the Red Devils were held by a determined Toffees side, the point was enough to see Erik ten Hag’s men lift the pre-season trophy thanks to their superior goal difference across the tournament.
In a match that delivered both drama and tactical intrigue, goals from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford helped United recover from an early Everton lead, only for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to level late on. Still, the draw proved sufficient for United, who finished the summer tournament unbeaten, showcasing both positives and lingering areas for improvement ahead of the new Premier League season.
First Half: Everton Strike Early, United Respond
The game began at a frenetic pace, with both sides eager to press and test each other’s defensive organization. It was Everton, however, who struck the first blow. In the 12th minute, James Garner—facing his former club—whipped in a precise free-kick that found Jarrad Branthwaite towering above Lisandro Martínez. The centre-back’s powerful header beat André Onana to put Everton 1-0 up.
Manchester United looked unsettled in the early moments, with their midfield unable to control possession effectively. However, the leadership of captain Bruno Fernandes soon began to show. Operating as a traditional No. 10 in Erik ten Hag’s 4-2-3-1 setup, Fernandes dropped deep to orchestrate play and calm the tempo.
United’s equalizer came in the 28th minute following a flowing move. Kobbie Mainoo, who has impressed throughout the Summer Series, intercepted a pass in midfield and carried the ball forward. He found Rashford on the left, who played a quick one-two with Luke Shaw before cutting inside. His low cross was deflected, and Fernandes, arriving late into the box, smashed home with his left foot from just outside the six-yard area.
The goal reinvigorated United, and for the next 15 minutes, they dominated possession. Everton, though compact in midfield, struggled to track United’s intelligent runs, especially from the flanks. Alejandro Garnacho on the right was a constant threat, forcing Vitalii Mykolenko into multiple recovery tackles.
Second Half: Rashford Scores, But Calvert-Lewin Levels
Ten Hag made three changes at halftime, introducing Scott McTominay, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and new signing Joshua Zirkzee for Casemiro, Diogo Dalot, and Højlund. The second half started brightly for United, and their pressure paid off in the 56th minute.
A quick transition from McTominay set Garnacho free on the right. The Argentine winger surged forward and clipped a pass across the box. Rashford, lurking near the penalty spot, took one touch to settle and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner to make it 2-1.
The goal put United in pole position to win the Summer Series, and Ten Hag’s side began to dictate the pace of the game. However, defensive fragility remained an issue. Everton, patient and opportunistic, continued to exploit spaces behind United’s full-backs.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 81st minute. Dwight McNeil, who had just come on for Danjuma, delivered a teasing cross into the area. United’s center-backs hesitated, and Calvert-Lewin leapt between Varane and Martínez to nod the ball past Onana, leveling the match at 2-2.
Despite late pressure from both sides, neither could find a winner. McTominay had a chance in the 88th minute with a thumping header that was tipped over by Jordan Pickford, while Calvert-Lewin narrowly missed a second in stoppage time, heading just wide from a corner.
United Crowned Champions
Although the draw wasn’t the ideal finish Ten Hag would’ve hoped for, United finished top of the Premier League Summer Series table, ahead of Chelsea and Arsenal, based on goal difference and points accumulated.
Across the tournament, United recorded wins over Arsenal (2-1) and Inter Miami (3-0), along with the draw against Everton. With key players like Fernandes, Rashford, and Garnacho performing well, and youth products like Mainoo and Amad Diallo getting valuable minutes, the campaign provided a balanced blend of competitive experience and tactical experimentation.
Key Performers
Bruno Fernandes – The captain led by example, notching a goal and dictating United’s transitions. His movement between the lines and vocal leadership were central to United’s attacking rhythm.
Marcus Rashford – Sharp, clinical, and constantly involved, Rashford looked close to mid-season form. His positioning and finishing will be vital for United’s goal-scoring hopes this season.
Kobbie Mainoo – Another confident display from the teenage midfielder. Calm in possession, quick to intercept, and mature beyond his years, Mainoo is rapidly becoming undroppable.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin – A physical presence all game, his equalizer showcased his poaching instincts. If he stays fit, he’ll be crucial for Everton this season.
Tactical Observations
Erik ten Hag’s emphasis on vertical transitions and full-back overlaps was evident throughout the match. Luke Shaw and Dalot (first half) offered width, while the midfield double pivot of Casemiro and Mainoo maintained balance. The pressing intensity was high in the first half but dipped late on, a sign of fatigue or perhaps lingering fitness issues.
Defensively, questions remain. United still look vulnerable to aerial balls and fast switches of play, especially when their full-backs push forward. Everton exploited these gaps effectively, something Ten Hag will need to address before the season opener.
Sean Dyche, meanwhile, can be proud of his team’s resilience. Everton were organized, disciplined, and efficient in front of goal. With smart use of substitutions and set pieces, they remain a well-drilled unit.
What This Means for United
While pre-season results should always be taken with caution, Manchester United’s victory in the Summer Series is a morale boost. Winning the tournament reflects positively on squad cohesion, and the competitive edge displayed in matches bodes well for the Premier League opener.
Importantly, fringe players and youngsters were given a chance to shine, with Mainoo, Zirkzee, and Hannibal Mejbri all receiving meaningful minutes. The emergence of depth in midfield and attack will give Ten Hag more options, particularly during the congested fixture periods ahead.
United’s fans, who turned up in large numbers across the U.S. tour, were treated to attacking football, visible tactical patterns, and a few standout moments that hint at a more consistent and exciting season ahead.
Final Thoughts
Manchester United may not have closed the match with a win, but their overall performances throughout the Premier League Summer Series showcased promising signs. Ten Hag’s project continues to take shape, blending youth development, pressing intensity, and attacking flair.
As the Red Devils prepare for their Premier League curtain-raiser, the 2-2 draw against Everton serves as both a celebration and a reminder—there’s still work to be done, particularly at the back. But with key players firing and young talent emerging, Manchester United head into the new season with momentum and belief.
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