Manchester United Stages Dramatic Comeback to Draw 2-2 Against Everton
Manchester United fought back from two goals down to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park in the Premier League. The match was marred by controversy as Everton had an injury-time penalty decision overturned following a VAR review.
Bruno Fernandes Inspires United’s Comeback
United’s skipper, Bruno Fernandes, played a pivotal role in the fightback. He first curled in a stunning free-kick to ignite hope for the visitors before his set-piece delivery led to Manuel Ugarte scoring an 80th-minute equalizer—his first club goal in four years.
Despite their late resurgence, United’s performance was far from convincing. Everton dominated much of the game and believed they had a chance to claim all three points when Ashley Young went down in the box during stoppage time. The referee, Andy Madley, initially awarded a penalty, pointing to Harry Maguire’s challenge and a possible shirt pull by Matthijs de Ligt.
VAR Controversy Denies Everton a Late Winner
VAR official Matt Donohue sent Madley to the pitchside monitor, where the review appeared to focus more on Maguire’s contact rather than the initial shirt pull. After the check, Madley overturned his decision, leaving Everton players and fans furious.
Manuel Ugarte’s First Goal in Four Years Saves United
The draw sees Manchester United drop crucial points in their push for a top-four finish, while Everton remains in the relegation battle. Ugarte’s strike from the edge of the area, combined with Fernandes’ leadership, ensured United salvaged a point from an otherwise lackluster display.
United Climbs the Table as Everton’s Struggles Continue
The draw sees Manchester United move up three spots to ninth place in the Premier League table after 13 matches, while Everton, who have now gone four consecutive games without scoring, sit precariously in 15th place, just two points above the relegation zone. Ugarte’s strike from the edge of the area, combined with Fernandes’ leadership, ensured United salvaged a point from an otherwise lackluster display.
In addition, Amad Diallo’s high-energy performance troubled Everton’s defense throughout the match. In the 64th minute, he dispossessed James Tarkowski and surged forward before assisting Joshua Zirkzee, who calmly netted his second goal of the game.
What’s Next?
Manchester United will now turn their focus to their upcoming fixtures, looking to build on this dramatic comeback. Meanwhile, Everton will feel hard done by the overturned penalty decision and seek to bounce back in their fight for survival.
