Las Vegas, July 31, 2023 – Manchester United’s U.S. tour concluded with a disappointing 3-2 defeat against Borussia Dortmund at the Allegiant Stadium on July 30, 2023. The Red Devils, under the helm of Erik ten Hag, were left to rue their defensive errors as they succumbed to their third defeat in four games on American soil.
The match started promisingly for United, with Diogo Dalot breaking the deadlock and putting the English side ahead. However, the lead was short-lived as Dortmund’s Donyell Malen struck twice in quick succession just before the halftime whistle, turning the tide in favor of the German outfit.
United managed to claw back into the game in the second half, with Antony restoring parity. However, another defensive lapse allowed Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko to find the net, sealing the victory for the Bundesliga side.
Despite fielding a strong lineup that included Harry Maguire, Donny van de Beek, and Facundo Pellistri, United’s defensive frailties were exposed by a ruthless Dortmund attack. Ten Hag will undoubtedly be concerned about these defensive lapses as they prepare for the upcoming season.
In a surprising move, Scott McTominay was handed the captain’s armband for the match, despite the inclusion of Harry Maguire in the starting lineup. This decision comes just a week after Maguire was stripped of the captaincy in favor of Bruno Fernandes, indicating a potential shift in the team’s leadership dynamics.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to United’s U.S. tour, which has seen them lose three out of their four matches. As they return to England, the Red Devils will need to regroup and address their defensive issues ahead of a challenging season.
Despite the defeat, there were some positive takeaways for United. The performances of some of the younger players, including Diogo Dalot and Antony, were encouraging signs for the future. However, the team’s defensive frailties will need to be addressed if they are to challenge for honors in the upcoming season.
As the dust settles on their U.S. tour, Manchester United will be looking to bounce back stronger. With the new season on the horizon, the Red Devils will be hoping to put their disappointing tour behind them and focus on the challenges ahead.
