KEY POINTS
- Substitute Benjamin Sesko scored the winning goal in the 84th minute at Old Trafford.
- The 2-1 result helps Manchester United maintain their push for a top-four Premier League finish.
- Everton remains in the relegation zone after failing to hold onto an early second-half lead.
Manchester United secured a hard-fought victory against Everton on Monday night thanks to a late intervention. Replacement striker Benjamin Sesko proved the hero for the home supporters at Old Trafford. The Slovenian international found the back of the net just minutes before the final whistle. This result provides a significant boost to the club’s European qualification hopes.
The match began with Manchester United dominating possession throughout the first half. However, the home side struggled to break down a disciplined Everton defensive block. Bruno Fernandes came closest to scoring with a powerful strike that hit the post. Everton looked dangerous on the counter-attack but lacked a clinical final touch.
The deadlock finally broke early in the second half through an unexpected source. Everton took a surprise lead in the 52nd minute following a corner kick. Dominic Calvert-Lewin rose highest to head the ball past the reaching goalkeeper. The away fans celebrated as their team looked to secure a major upset.
United manager Ruben Amorim responded by making several tactical changes to his lineup. He introduced Sesko and Marcus Rashford to add more speed to the attack. The pressure eventually paid off when United earned a penalty in the 68th minute. Fernandes stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to level the score.
The momentum shifted entirely in favor of the hosts following the equalizer. Everton retreated deep into their own half to protect the single point. United continued to launch crosses into the box looking for a decisive moment. The atmosphere grew tense as the game entered the final ten minutes.
The breakthrough arrived in the 84th minute after a clever passing sequence. Alejandro Garnacho delivered a precise low cross into the center of the penalty area. Sesko reacted quickest to poke the ball into the bottom corner of the net. The stadium erupted as the young forward celebrated his match-winning contribution.
Everton attempted a desperate late comeback during five minutes of injury time. They threw everyone forward including their goalkeeper for a final set piece. United’s defense held firm under the aerial pressure to secure the three points. The defeat leaves Everton in a precarious position near the bottom of the table.
This win keeps Manchester United within striking distance of the Champions League spots. The team showed resilience to come from behind under significant pressure. Fans praised the manager for his effective use of substitutions during the second half. United now prepares for a difficult away trip in their next league fixture.
