Bruno Fernandes Leads Man United to Preseason Victory Over West Ham

DDM News

Manchester United recorded their first preseason win of the 2025 campaign with a 2–1 triumph over West Ham United in New Jersey.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the match, played at the MetLife Stadium, marked a turning point in United’s U.S. tour, with captain Bruno Fernandes starring as the difference-maker.

The game began with an early opportunity for the Red Devils in the fifth minute when young talent Ayden Heaven pressed Alphonse Areola into a costly error.

Areola’s mistake led to a foul inside the box, and Fernandes stepped up to calmly convert the penalty and give United an early 1–0 lead.

Despite the setback, West Ham responded with confident possession play but failed to penetrate Manchester United’s organized defense.

Striker Rasmus Højlund nearly added a second goal with a powerful strike that rattled the woodwork, signaling United’s intent.

Minutes before halftime, Amad Diallo found the net from a clever Manuel Ugarte pass, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

United eventually doubled their lead in the 52nd minute after Patrick Dorgu won the ball in a high pressing move.

Fernandes picked up the loose ball and fired a low, composed shot from outside the box to make it 2–0.

West Ham responded just over 10 minutes later when Jarrod Bowen unleashed a brilliant strike into the top corner.

The goal reinvigorated the Hammers, with Bowen coming close to a late equalizer, forcing a strong save from Altay Bayındır.

Manchester United’s defense held firm in the final stages, displaying tactical awareness and composure under pressure.

Head coach Ruben Amorim praised Fernandes after the match, calling him “really important” to the team’s structure and spirit.

Amorim also highlighted the contribution of several other players, especially Ayden Heaven, who impressed once again with energy and maturity down the right flank.

New Brazilian signing Matheus Cunha showed signs of promise with intelligent movement and crisp link-up play in his second appearance.

West Ham, though defeated, had encouraging signs with Bowen’s standout goal and the performance of newcomers Luis Guilherme and Niclas Füllkrug.

Both teams approached the match as a critical test in their preseason preparations, especially as they integrate new signings and tactical systems.

Manchester United’s coaching staff emphasized the need to improve sharpness in front of goal ahead of tougher challenges ahead.

The Red Devils are expected to rotate heavily in their next U.S. tour fixture to build chemistry and match fitness across the squad.

For Fernandes, this outing only reinforced his role as a key figure in Amorim’s new project at Old Trafford.

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