United’s U.S. Tour Ends in Dramatic 2–2 Draw with Everton in Atlanta

Manchester United’s summer tour of the United States came to a dramatic close in Atlanta, where a chaotic and high-energy clash with Everton ended in a 2–2 draw. Played in front of a buzzing crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the match served as a final tune-up before the Premier League returns—and it did not disappoint.

Fernandes Opens the Scoring, But Everton Fight Back

The action started early as United took the lead through Bruno Fernandes. After Amad was brought down in the box by Everton’s James Tarkowski, Fernandes confidently stepped up and converted the penalty. The decision itself drew debate, with Everton players protesting the call, but the Portuguese midfielder made no mistake from the spot.

Despite going behind, Everton showed resilience and pressed higher up the pitch. Their equalizer came just before halftime, when Idrissa Gueye delivered a pinpoint cross to Iliman Ndiaye, who ghosted in at the far post and tapped the ball home with composure. It was a well-worked move and a deserved equalizer.

Mason Mount Shines with a Screamer

After the break, United looked sharp again, and Mason Mount, who has enjoyed a strong preseason, showed his class. Picking up the ball just outside the penalty area, Mount curled a stunning shot into the corner, leaving the keeper rooted. It was the kind of goal that reminded fans why United were so keen to bring him in last season.

The Red Devils were beginning to find rhythm, with new signings like Bryan Mbeumo also getting minutes and linking up well with Matheus Cunha. The attacking transitions were fluid, and Amorim’s pressing system looked polished in stretches.

Late Drama: Own Goal Levels It for Everton

Just when United seemed poised to leave with another win, disaster struck. In the dying minutes, a defensive scramble saw Amad try to clear a loose ball inside the box. Unfortunately, his clearance hit Ayden Heaven—his own teammate—and ricocheted back into the United net. It was a freak own goal, and a crushing way for United to concede the equalizer.

Everton, who had failed to win either of their previous two games on the tour, celebrated the goal with relief. For David Moyes, the draw ended a frustrating run, though it was clear the team still needs major reinforcements before the Premier League season begins. He has publicly voiced the need for up to nine new signings to strengthen the squad.

United’s Mixed Feelings

While the draw was far from the result they wanted, United can take positives from their performance. Fernandes and Mount looked sharp, and the new attacking additions showed promise. Amorim’s pressing philosophy continues to take shape, and the team appears more cohesive than they did a month ago.

Defensively, however, there are questions. Two leads were lost, and the own goal highlighted a lack of clarity in chaotic moments. These are issues Amorim will want to iron out before they welcome Fiorentina for their final friendly back home.

Final Thoughts

The 2–2 draw might not have capped the tour with glory, but it offered plenty of entertainment and insights. United leave the U.S. unbeaten but slightly bruised, while Everton end their trip on a more hopeful note after a hard-fought point.

As both clubs gear up for the return of competitive football, this match reminded fans just how quickly fortunes can shift—and how thrilling preseason football can still be when pride, tactics, and new beginnings are all on the line.