Manchester United staged a dramatic comeback to earn a point against Everton at Goodison Park, recovering from a two-goal deficit in a match filled with controversy. A stoppage-time penalty decision, initially awarded to Everton, was overturned after a VAR review, providing a crucial reprieve for the visitors.
Everton had taken full control of the game in the first half, capitalizing on United’s lackluster performance. Beto opened the scoring after a chaotic sequence in the penalty area, steering his finish through André Onana’s guard. Despite a lengthy VAR check for offside, the goal stood, marking Beto’s fifth strike in four matches. The second goal soon followed, as Everton’s intensity and precision proved too much for United’s disjointed defense. Jake O’Brien intercepted a weak attack and set up Jesper Lindstrøm, whose pass found Beto in space. The striker squared the ball to Jack Harrison, and while Onana managed to parry his shot, Abdoulaye Doucouré reacted quickest to nod in from close range.
United’s first-half display was dismal, showing no attacking intent and leaving Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte overwhelmed in midfield. Their xG (expected goals) stood at a miserable 0.04, with only a wayward Ugarte shot and an off-target Joshua Zirkzee header as notable attempts. However, the second half brought more urgency, if not immediate quality.
Bruno Fernandes gave United hope in the 72nd minute, converting a free-kick after a handball by Doucouré. The goal shifted the momentum, and Everton, once comfortable, began to look vulnerable. Their fears were realized eight minutes later when United equalized. Fernandes delivered another set-piece into the box, and Beto’s clearing header only reached Ugarte, who controlled on his chest before firing a precise shot beyond Jordan Pickford from 18 yards.
As the game entered stoppage time, Everton were awarded a penalty when Ashley Young appeared to be impeded by Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire while attempting to reach a rebound. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, sparking fury among the home supporters. Pickford later denied Fernandes a late winner, ensuring the spoils were shared.
While United’s comeback showed resilience, the performance raised concerns about their defensive frailties and lack of creativity for much of the contest. Everton, despite their dominance, were left frustrated by the late drama and a missed opportunity to claim all three points.
