A controversial VAR decision in stoppage time overshadowed the match, denying Everton a possible game-winning penalty.
Everton began the contest on the front foot, exploiting Manchester United’s defensive vulnerabilities. Their early pressure paid off in the 19th minute when Beto capitalized on United’s inability to clear a corner, scoring his fifth league goal in four matches. The home team extended their advantage before the break as Abdoulaye Doucouré reacted quickest to a rebound, heading the ball past Andre Onana from close range. Throughout the first half, Manchester United’s defense, which included Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, struggled to contain Everton’s attacking intent and appeared disorganized under pressure.
The second half saw a vastly improved Manchester United side. Manager Ruben Amorim made impactful substitutions, with Alejandro Garnacho’s introduction adding urgency and creativity to their play. In the 72nd minute, team captain Bruno Fernandes halved the deficit with a brilliantly executed free-kick. Eight minutes later, Manuel Ugarte restored parity, striking a well-controlled volley from the edge of the penalty area. With momentum now firmly in their favor, United looked poised to complete a remarkable comeback.
However, the match’s most controversial moment came in stoppage time. Everton appeared to have won a penalty when Ashley Young went down in the box following challenges from Maguire and De Ligt. Referee Andy Madley initially pointed to the spot, sparking celebrations among the home fans. Yet, following a VAR review, the referee reversed his decision, determining that no foul had taken place. This verdict infuriated Everton supporters, who believed their team had been unfairly denied a late opportunity to reclaim the lead.
Following the match, discussions centered around individual performances. Casemiro, who was once a dominant presence in midfield, struggled to impose himself and was substituted after just 62 minutes. On the other hand, Bruno Fernandes demonstrated his leadership and technical brilliance, playing a key role in United’s second-half resurgence. Despite the spirited comeback, questions remain about Manchester United’s defensive stability, with Maguire and De Ligt continuing to deliver inconsistent displays.
This result leaves Manchester United in 15th place, three spots below Everton. The draw highlights the ongoing challenges Ruben Amorim faces in trying to establish consistency and resilience within his squad. While Everton will be disappointed not to have secured all three points given their strong first-half performance, their display demonstrated the promise of David Moyes’ team.
In response to the controversy, the Premier League released a statement explaining that VAR determined no foul had occurred, leading to the penalty decision being overturned. However, this explanation did little to appease frustrated Everton fans, who felt their team had been denied a fair result.
