Las Vegas, USA – Manchester United concluded their 2023 pre-season tour in the United States with a gripping 3-2 defeat against Borussia Dortmund at the Allegiant Stadium on Monday.
Diogo Dalot, who was among the 11 changes to the starting lineup from the previous match against Real Madrid, showcased his skill with a spectacular curled effort, giving the Reds an early lead. However, the first half took an unexpected turn when Donyell Malen scored twice in rapid succession, turning the tables in favor of Erik ten Hag’s Dortmund side.
The second half was equally enthralling as both teams fought fiercely for victory. Antony brought United level early on with a composed finish, only for Dortmund’s substitute Youssoufa Moukoko to slide home a winning goal, leaving the fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The first half saw a late sucker-punch for United, with young winger Omari Forson making an impact with his first pre-season start. His efforts, along with Facundo Pellistri’s on the opposite flank, created difficulties for Dortmund’s defense. Eventually, Dalot’s brilliant goal gave United the lead, but their advantage was short-lived as Malen struck twice just before halftime, leaving United trailing.
The second half saw a change in goal for United, with Andre Onana replacing Tom Heaton. United displayed determination and skill as Antony equalized, demonstrating their intent to win. Despite several attempts to find an equalizer, Dortmund’s defense held firm, and Moukoko’s well-timed goal sealed the victory for the Bundesliga side.
The match showcased exciting performances from both sides, with notable displays from players like Jadon Sancho, who faced his former club, and Antony, who impressed with his composure and finishing abilities.
Match Details:
- Manchester United lineup: Heaton (Onana 46); Dalot (Casemiro 61), Lindelof (Martinez 61), Maguire (Evans 61), Williams (Shaw 61); Eriksen (Wan-Bissaka 61), McTominay (c) (Mount 61); Pellistri (Rashford 61), van de Beek (Fernandes 61), Forson (Antony 38); Sancho (Hugill 77).
- Borussia Dortmund lineup: Kobel (Meyer 46), Ryerson (Meunier 62 (Pohlmann 68)), Sule (Bueno 76), Hummels (Papadopoulos 77), Wolf (Bensebaini 46), Emre Can (Bamba 62), Sabitzer (Ozcan 46), Brandt (Besong 76), Adeyemi (Hazard 62), Malen (Reus 61), Haller (Moukoko 61).
Both teams put on an excellent display, providing the 50,857 fans in attendance with a memorable conclusion to Tour 2023. As the pre-season comes to an end, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund will be looking forward to their respective campaigns with optimism and high hopes.