Manchester United, who won the shootout 2-1, took the lead just before halftime. (Source: Reuters)
Manchester United kept their winning streak intact on their US tour as they beat Real Madrid in penalties in the International Champions Cup on Sunday.
After the Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho denied reports linking goalkeeper David de Gea with the Spanish champions, the keeper proved his worth by saving spot-kicks from Mateo Kovacic and Oscar, helping United win the match.
After United took the lead shortly after half-time with a goal from Jesse Lingard, who was set up by a display of brilliant skills by Anthony Martial, Zinedine Zidane’s men responded with Casemiro’s equaliser.
The first pre-season match for Real Madrid ended in a defeat while United won their fourth consecutive match since the beginning of their United States tour.
After Ander Herrera limped off just minutes after coming on as a substitute in the second half, Mourinho said that more than the result of the match, it is the fitness of players that matters. “I also always say to the players, no risk in friendlies. If you feel something, or if you feel something is coming, get out, because the result is not important,” he said.
Zidane looked at the positives despite the loss and said, “It was our first game and we did quite well against a team that has had four or five games under their belts. I think that’s a positive.”
“We hope we continue to find our form fast and that’s what we’re working on.”
The two sides will meet soon again in the UEFA Super Cup next month, which will be a much more competitive affair.
