Bryan Mbeumo continued his positive pre-season with an ice-cold equaliser as Manchester United drew 1-1 with Paris Saint-Germain at Nya Ullevi in Gothenburg. But the afternoon was unfortunately marked by injury worries for both Mason Mount and goalkeeper Tom Heaton.
Lightning fast PSG start
PSG got off to a dream start and took the lead after just two minutes. Ibrahim Mbaye received a cross from Dro Fernandez and coolly put the ball into the net with his right foot.
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The young PSG winger, who is fighting for a more prominent role under Luis Enrique, was very active in the opening minutes and gave the United defence little time to breathe.
Mbeumo equalized – with class
However, the response from Michael Carrick’s crew was not long in coming. Mbeumo played his way through Matvey Safonov with a left-footed shot from outside the box – before the Cameroonian striker equalised after 32 minutes.
The finish was clinical: a shot in the bottom right corner after a brilliant exchange with Amad Diallo on the edge of the box. Once again, Mbeumo showed that he is in brilliant shape before the start of the season.
The injury nightmare continues
However, two injury concerns will give Carrick cause for concern.
Mason Mount had to leave the field as early as the 19th minute, replaced by teenage talent Tyler Fletcher. The midfielder broke down after a tackle in United’s half of the pitch – and immediately looked affected.
Just after halftime, things got worse. Goalkeeper Tom Heaton also had to leave the field – just two minutes after the restart. Thus, young Dermot me got his chance between the sticks.
PSG pressed – United responded
PSG, who also rotated diligently to test the width of the squad, created several dangers. Khvitsha Kvaratskhelia threatened with his raids, and Illia Zabarnyi had a powerful header that Heaton saved masterfully – before the goalkeeper himself had to give up.
United tried to steal the victory on the eve of the game. Harry Maguire fired a long-range left-footed shot in the 75th minute, but Safonov easily deflected. Shea Lacey then had a great chance six minutes before the end – but shot over from close range with the goal almost open.
Bruno Fernandes, who came on in the second half along with Youri Tielemans and Joshua Zirkzee, then shot wide in the 89th minute. Thus, the match ended 1-1 – and the points were shared in Gothenburg.
Summary
Objectives: Mbaye (2′) – Mbeumo (32′)
Red card: None
Yellow card: None
United showed a lot of positives – but the injuries to Mount and Heaton cast a dark shadow over an otherwise uplifting evening for Carrick’s men.
