In an impressive display, Manchester United secured their second consecutive win, dominating Bournemouth with a commanding 4-1 scoreline in the Premier League Summer Series pre-season tournament held in Chicago on Wednesday.
Rasmus Hojlund, Patrick Dorgu, Amad Diallo, and the young sensation Ethan Williams delivered a stellar performance, securing a promising victory for Ruben Amorim’s squad at the drenched and blustery Soldier Field.
United kicked off their tour in style with a 2-1 triumph over West Ham on Saturday, and they maintained that momentum against the Cherries. They seized the advantage early, with Hojlund finding the net just eight minutes into the match.
Dorgu delivered a tantalising cross from the left flank, and Denmark international Hojlund executed his run and leap flawlessly, directing a header beyond Bournemouth’s custodian, Djordje Petrovic.
Dorgu extended United’s advantage in the 25th minute, capitalising on a smart, lofted quick free-kick from Mason Mount. He powered his way into the box and executed a composed finish beneath the onrushing Petrovic.
In the 53rd minute, Diallo powered home United’s third goal, showcasing his striking prowess. Shortly after, Amorim opted for a dramatic overhaul, making nine substitutions with just 20 minutes remaining on the clock.
Substitute Williams wasted no time, making his presence felt just two minutes after entering the pitch, curling a precise low finish into the bottom corner to extend United’s lead to 4-0.
United’s performance was nearly flawless, but it was marred by an unfortunate own goal from Matthijs de Ligt in the 88th minute.
In a thrilling encounter on Wednesday, West Ham showcased their resilience by overcoming a deficit to secure a 2-1 victory against Everton, the team formerly managed by David Moyes, in a Premier League friendly held in Chicago.
Idrissa Gueye gave Everton the lead with a goal in the 17th minute, but West Ham fought back to level the score just before the half-time whistle, thanks to a strike from Brazilian international Lucas Paqueta. In a thrilling encounter, Germany international Niclas Fullkrug found the back of the net in the 64th minute, securing a vital victory for the Hammers.
Everton faced yet another frustrating pre-season challenge, suffering a decisive 3-0 defeat at the hands of Bournemouth on Saturday.
“I’m not particularly worried because I lack the players I require and desire,” stated Everton manager Moyes in the post-match comments.
“We were well aware before arriving in the US that we would face significant challenges.” It was clear from the outset that victory was not in the cards for us today.
“Currently, we find ourselves unprepared to deliver the level of performance required in this tournament, and we are not equipped to kick off the Premier League season effectively.”
The thrilling four-team showdown wraps up in Atlanta this Sunday, as United goes head-to-head with Everton, while West Ham squares off against Bournemouth.
