Manchester United Rout Bournemouth in Rain to Top Summer Series Standings

Manchester United Dominate Bournemouth 5-2 in Rain-Soaked Summer Series Clash
By Luke Power and Chris Wheeler | Updated: 05:55 BST, 31 July 2025

Manchester United players celebrate during their dominant preseason win over Bournemouth in Chicago.

Pre-Match Build-Up
Manchester United delivered a thrilling 5-2 victory against Bournemouth at Soldier Field, Chicago, in a rain-drenched Summer Series friendly. The Red Devils seized control early, showcasing attacking flair despite slippery conditions, and climbed to the top of the preseason tournament table.

First Half Highlights
United wasted no time asserting dominance, with Bruno Fernandes opening the scoring in the 12th minute after a swift counterattack. Bournemouth responded briefly through Dominic Solanke’s header, but Amad Diallo restored the lead with a stunning curler from the edge of the box.

Amad Diallo’s brilliant strike put United back in front before halftime.

Second Half Surge
The floodgates opened after halftime. Fernandes netted his second via a deflected free-kick, while substitute Mason Greenwood tapped in a rebound to make it 4-1. Bournemouth’s Philip Billing pulled one back with a long-range effort, but Alejandro Garnacho sealed the win with a clinical finish in stoppage time.

Key Moments

• 12’ GOAL: Fernandes slots home after Rashford’s cutback.
• 24’ EQUALIZER: Solanke heads in from Brooks’ cross.
• 37’ UNITED LEAD: Diallo curls into the top corner.
• 58’ FERNANDES STRIKES AGAIN: Deflected free-kick beats Bournemouth’s keeper.
• 72’ GREENWOOD MAKES IT FOUR: Reacts quickest to a spilled shot.
• 85’ BILLING’S CONSOLATION: Powerful strike from 25 yards.
• 92’ GARNACHO FINISHES IT: Cool one-on-one finish.

Tactical Takeaways
Erik ten Hag’s side displayed improved pressing and fluidity, with Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield. Bournemouth struggled defensively but showed promise in transitions. Goalkeeper Andre Onana made several key saves to deny the Cherries a comeback.

Post-Match Reactions
Bruno Fernandes: “The conditions were tough, but we stayed focused. It’s about building momentum for the season.”
Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth manager): “We conceded soft goals but will learn from this.”

What’s Next?
United face Bayern Munich in their final Summer Series match, while Bournemouth take on Aston Villa. Both teams continue preparations ahead of the Premier League kickoff on August 16.

Fans braved heavy rain to watch the thrilling encounter in Chicago.

Final Score: Manchester United 5-2 Bournemouth
Goals: Fernandes (2), Diallo, Greenwood, Garnacho; Solanke, Billing

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