Manchester United claimed the Snapdragon Cup with a 5-4 penalty shootout win over Fiorentina after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. The result adds a morale boost before the club’s Premier League opener against Arsenal next weekend.
The match marked the home introduction of new striker Benjamin Sesko, whose £73.7 million move from RB Leipzig was announced on the day. He joined fellow arrivals Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, both starting in the game.
Fiorentina took an early lead when Simon Sohm pounced on a defensive lapse. United drew level midway through the first half when a Bruno Fernandes cross was deflected into the net amid a crowded penalty area, with Robin Gosens appearing to get a touch. Former United goalkeeper David de Gea, honored before the match, protested for a foul on the play.
Sohm nearly struck again after the break but hit the crossbar. Fernandes, Harry Maguire, and Cunha all tested Fiorentina’s defense, while young defender Ayden Heaven was forced off with an injury. De Gea received a standing ovation when substituted late in the match and did not take part in the shootout.
In the penalties, Altay Bayindir made the decisive save against Fabiano Parisi to seal United’s victory.
Statistically, United dominated with 61% possession, 14 attempts and 5 shots on target, compared to Fiorentina’s single shot on target from 10 attempts. United also had an 88% pass accuracy and earned six corners.
Yet the match revealed a drop in fluidity compared to the earlier rout of Bournemouth. With the transfer window closing in three weeks, the club is still pursuing a new midfielder, and the night’s midfield effort suggested the search cannot conclude soon.
