Michael Carrick was present in the stands as Man United U21 edged Sporting in a lively youth clash.
Michael Carrick In Attendance To Watch Man United U21 Side
Manchester United U21s signed off their Premier League International Cup group stage in style. They earned a gripping 3-2 win over Sporting CP at Progress With Unity Stadium. Michael Carrick’s presence turned heads, especially given past absentees from senior figures at a youth game.
The young Reds’ side wasted no time making noise. Inside eight minutes, Jayce Fitzgerald showed sharp feet under pressure and always rolled away from his markers. He slid a neat pass into James Scanlon’s path. The finish was calm and confident.
Meanwhile, Sporting hit back fast through Rafael Mota. He saw a corner beyond Will Murdock. But, Man United did not panic. Scanlon picked the ball up in space and drove forward with intent. He smashed a fierce shot that restored the lead and lifted the tempo again.
Hat-Trick Hero Seals Statement Win Late On
The second half was tense, with Sporting pushing and United holding their shape. Carrick was hooked onto the game as Scanlon continued to demand the ball. In the 75th minute, the breakthrough arrived. Chido Obi’s clever pass found Scanlon at the far post, and the winger squeezed home his third of the night.
Sporting refused to give up. Seven minutes from the final whistle, Martim Peixoto controlled a long ball from Miguel Alves and fired past Murdock to set up a finish. Man Utd dug in and managed the final moments smartly. They protected their lead following the opponents constant attacking threats. The whistle confirmed a deserved win and a strong end to the group stage. With that, Scanlon’s display sent a clear message to those watching.
Author’s Opinion:
Carrick’s attendance mattered as Scanlon made the real statement. This felt like youth football with intent and belief.
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