Man United Beat Leeds on Penalties in Thrilling Dublin Friendly
August 13, 2026Manchester United and Leeds United served up a cracker in Dublin. The two rivals drew 1-1 after 90 minutes. Then, United held their nerve. Man United beat Leeds on penalties, winning the shootout 5-4. Croke Park was packed for this pre-season clash.
Key Stats and Takeaways
- Man United beat Leeds on penalties by a score of 5-4.
- The match itself finished 1-1 after normal time.
- Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring in the 16th minute.
- Brenden Aaronson equalized for Leeds before the half-hour mark.
- Noussair Mazraoui scored the decisive spot-kick in the shootout.
How Man United Beat Leeds on Penalties at Croke Park
The action started fast. Bryan Mbeumo set up Zirkzee early on. As a result, United took a deserved lead. However, Leeds fought back quickly. Daniel James, a former United winger, created the chance. Then, Aaronson finished it clinically for the equalizer.
Michael Carrick made changes at halftime. Meanwhile, young winger Tynan Thompson made his debut. Harry Wilson had a golden chance for Leeds. Still, his shot went straight at keeper Senne Lammens.
Bruno Fernandes came on later in the match. He hit the crossbar with a curling effort. Consequently, the game stayed level after 90 minutes. So, it went to a penalty shootout.
Why Man United Beat Leeds on Penalties in Sudden Death
The shootout was tense from start to finish. Surprisingly, Bruno Fernandes missed his spot-kick. Therefore, the shootout went to sudden death. James Justin’s effort then struck the crossbar for Leeds. Finally, Mazraoui stepped up and scored. As a result, Man United beat Leeds on penalties 5-4.
Interestingly, the match ended in odd fashion. Two young fans ran onto the pitch. They wanted selfies with United captain Fernandes. Consequently, security had to step in. The referee blew for full time right after.
Carrick also held back key players. Marcus Rashford was kept in reserve. Casemiro and other regulars also rested. Instead, they are saving energy for Saturday. United face AC Milan next in Wroclaw.
This friendly gave fans plenty to enjoy. Young talent got valuable minutes on the pitch. Meanwhile, veterans tested their fitness levels. Overall, it was a solid warm-up for both sides.
FAQs: Man United Beat Leeds on Penalties
What was the final score between Man United and Leeds?
The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes. Then, Man United beat Leeds on penalties 5-4.
Who scored for Manchester United in the match?
Joshua Zirkzee scored the only goal in normal time. He netted in the 16th minute.
Where did Man United play Leeds?
The friendly took place at Croke Park. This iconic stadium sits in Dublin, Ireland.
Who scored the winning penalty for United?
Noussair Mazraoui scored the decisive spot-kick. His goal sealed the shootout win.
Did Bruno Fernandes play in the game?
Yes, Fernandes came on as a substitute. However, he missed his penalty in the shootout.
