Manchester United beat Lyon in friendly
Midfielder Donny van de Beek scored the only goal, helping Manchester United defeat Lyon 1-0 in their second friendly match ahead of the 2023-2024 season.
This was Van de Beek’s first goal for Manchester United since his headed goal against Watford in November 2021. After scoring, the Dutch forward shouted in celebration, expressing his relief. On the sidelines, Erik ten Hag showed his happiness at seeing his former protege from Ajax find the back of the net.
Van de Beek was among the players rumored to be potentially sold by Manchester United this summer. However, his performances in the pre-season matches and his good relationship with Ten Hag might salvage his career at Old Trafford.
A week ago, Manchester United defeated Leeds 2-0 in their first pre-season match before the new season. Compared to that match, Ten Hag continued to pair the central defenders Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez in the starting lineup.
New signing Mason Mount continued in the attacking midfield role, while Jadon Sancho once again played as a central forward while the club was negotiating the purchase of striker Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta.
The “Red Devils” had some good opportunities to open the scoring early in the game. Antony had a chance but couldn’t beat Lyon’s goalkeeper Anthony Lopes. Sancho and Mount tried to combine with a quick pass, but the move was unsuccessful due to an offside call. The new midfielder from Chelsea missed chances to score his first goal for Manchester United.
In the 37th minute, Mount stood before a free-kick just over 20 meters from the goal but failed to get the ball past the defensive wall. Shortly after, his curling shot from outside the box went wide.
Manchester United made several changes in the second half, keeping only goalkeeper Matej Kovar on the pitch after the break. In a well-executed play from the right wing, defender Daniel Gore made an effort to cross the ball. Van de Beek found a good position and executed a one-touch volley, leaving no chance for Lyon’s goalkeeper to save the shot.
The opening goal boosted Manchester United’s morale. They created several good chances in succession but couldn’t double their lead. Marc Jurado’s close-range effort was blocked by Lyon’s defender, and Isak Hansen-Aaroeen’s curling shot couldn’t beat Lopes.
In the second half, Ten Hag introduced experienced center-back Jonny Evans, who recently signed a short-term deal with Manchester United, hoping to secure a place in the “Red Devils” squad for the upcoming season. Despite playing alongside 20-year-old Will Fish, Evans’ experience helped Manchester United control the game in the second half, preventing Lyon from registering any shots on target.
After this match, Manchester United will travel to the United States for four more pre-season matches, starting with a clash against Arsenal in New Jersey on July 22nd. Keep following Live Football Schedule to update the latest football news, fixtures, and results as well as enjoy a live soccer game today!
