Los Angeles: Manchester United began their 2018-19 pre-season with a hard-fought stalemate after Juan Mata’s equaliser helped the Red Devils come from behind to draw 1-1 with Club America in Arizona, Thursday.
It was a tough outing for the Premier League giants, who were without most of their key players, started off with attacking intent and made string of attacks. But they couldn’t break the Club America defence wall as the match remained goalless at the break.
After half time, Club America broke the deadlock through a header by Henry Martin in the 59th minute at University of Phoenix Stadium. The second string Man U side however, restore parity 12 minutes from time after a cross from youngster Tahith Chong found Ander Herrera, whose header hit the post. The ball rebounded to an attentive Mata, whose volley snuck through the legs of Club America goalkeeper.
It was a lively start from both sides despite temperatures of 40 degree Celsius in Phoenix. Anthony Martial was unlucky not to receive a penalty in the ninth minute after he appeared to be tripped in the area.
Man U were without Romelu Lukaku, Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, Marcus Rashford and Marouane Fellaini who are having a break after a grueling World Cup Campaign. However, David de Gea, Nemanja Matic and new signing Fred are expected to join the team next week, while Chilean Alexis Sanchez was thought to be arriving soon after resolving his visa issues.
“We knew it was going to be difficult because they have been training for more weeks than us, so I think they are in a better condition,” Mata said.
United next face Major League Soccer (MLS) side San Jose Earthquakes Sunday at the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.