Manchester United beat Leeds United on penalties tonight after their friendly ended in a 1-1 draw in Dublin earlier on Wednesday evening.
Joshua Zirkzee scored early for Manchester United after the Red Devils dominated the opening exchanges. However, Leeds hit back with a Brenden Aaronson equaliser before the break.
The second half saw both goalkeepers make a couple of important saves, but Manchester United eventually came out on top in the penalty shootout.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke has already been impressed with James Trafford’s debut, while the game provided both sides with a useful test ahead of the new season.
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Manchester United manager Michael Carrick makes honest assessment of Leeds
The Manchester United boss insisted that his side deserved to score a few more goals in the second half, given the chances they created and was happy with the performance.
However, he conceded that Leeds showed why they are such a tough team in the Premier League with the way they bounced back during the game.
He feels it was a solid performance and several of his players got important minutes under their belt ahead of the new season.
Carrick said after the game: “I thought in the first half we were dangerous and could have had a number of goals. We played some really good football.
“And then they came back into the game. Obviously we know Leeds are a strong team and they showed that in the second half.
“Then as the second half goes on, there were quite a lot of changes, but it was good for us to get some important minutes for our lads on the pitch.
“It was a really positive night, and I thought all the young players on the pitch did really well. It was a great experience for them.
“And it’s always nice to win in the end. I know it’s penalties, but it’s always nice to win in the end.”
Qualifying for Europe is not a far-fetched dream for Leeds
Europe should not be the expectation for Leeds next season. Their priority has to be establishing themselves in the Premier League and making sure they stay well clear of another relegation battle.
That does not mean supporters cannot dream, though. Leeds have shown plenty of ambition with their transfer business this summer and are expected to make a few more additions before the window closes.
Given the amount of money being spent by clubs around them, even breaking into the top half will be difficult. However, Leeds showed enough resilience and character last season to suggest they can compete.
If a few of the more established sides underperform and an opportunity opens up, there is no reason Leeds cannot put themselves in the conversation. A top-eight finish could potentially be enough to secure European football, and the Whites may just be one of the teams capable of taking advantage.
