Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
Manchester United have concluded the 2026 SuperCupNI tournament with a penalty shootout win over Mexican side Tigres.
The SuperCupNI has concluded with Manchester United lifting the Premier Globe trophy after a tense 1-1 draw with Tigres was decided in an equally tense penalty shootout.
It was the ideal conclusion to what has been an excellent showing for United this summer, with several elite young talents showcasing why they are so highly regarded.
Here is exactly what happened in the final.
Manchester United v Intercontinental FA: Super Cup NI - Boys Premier
Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
Ben Lyne scores key goal for Manchester United U16
United were in the second-tier final of the SuperCupNI this week, having finished second in the group to Antrim. After beating Sunderland 1-0 in the semi-final, Tigres awaited in the final.
It was a real nervy contest, with neither side taking many risks. But it was Tigres who struck first, opening the scoring early in the second half.
United then took charge of the game, before Ben Lyne scored his fourth goal of the tournament with a great strike, which secured his place as one of the standouts of the entire tournament and a name to watch in the coming season, as he will surely be pushing for a U18 debut.
In the shootout, nothing could separate the two sides until Marley Irving made a key save at 4-4, followed by Joseph Deighton stepping up to score the decisive penalty.
After the game, Tigres gave United a guard of honour, and the sides took a joint team photo, both instances showcasing great sportsmanship.
Lyne is one to watch for United this season
If one player had to be named United’s player of the tournament here, it would be Lyne, as the young Irish forward starred in pretty much every game.
The number 11 was relentless on the left, never stopping and working extremely hard at both ends of the pitch. Particularly in attack, he was great, so direct, and plays with a straightforward style that is so eye-catching.
He doesn’t have the skills or tricks of a Jaice Dore or a JJ Gabriel, but he gets the job done, and his finishing is already excellent.
Darren Fletcher will like the look of Lyne, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he was fast-tracked this season into the U18 side.