In a dramatic encounter at Goodison Park, Everton and Manchester United played to a 2-2 draw, marked by a controversial VAR decision in stoppage time.
Everton started strongly, with Beto opening the scoring in the 19th minute by volleying over United’s goalkeeper, Andre Onana. Abdoulaye Doucoure extended the lead in the 33rd minute, heading in after Onana parried a shot from Jack Harrison. Manchester United struggled in the first half, failing to register a shot on target.
The second half saw a rejuvenated United side, bolstered by the introduction of Alejandro Garnacho. Bruno Fernandes ignited the comeback with a precise free-kick in the 72nd minute, reducing the deficit. Eight minutes later, Manuel Ugarte equalized with a well-struck volley from outside the box.
The match’s climax came in stoppage time when referee Andy Madley awarded Everton a penalty after Ashley Young went down in the box. However, following a VAR review, the decision was overturned, sparking frustration among the home supporters and leaving the final score at 2-2.
Post-match, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim criticized his team’s lackluster first-half performance, stating, “We did not exist in the first half.” Conversely, Everton’s David Moyes expressed disappointment over the rescinded penalty but acknowledged his team’s strong display against his former club.
This result leaves Everton in 12th place and Manchester United in 15th, both teams eager to improve their standings as the season progresses.
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Story by Annang Samuel Yartey Kafui
