Bruno Fernandes Brace Leads Manchester United to Dominant Win Over West Ham in Thrilling US Pre-Season Friendly 🇺🇸
Location: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Event: Premier League Summer Series 2025
Final Score: Manchester United 3-1 West Ham United
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes stole the show as the Red Devils powered past West Ham United with a 3-1 victory in a high-octane pre-season clash held in Las Vegas. The match, part of the Premier League’s US Summer Series, drew tens of thousands of fans, creating a raucous, stadium-filling atmosphere more akin to a Champions League night than a July friendly.
Fernandes, who had been relatively quiet in the earlier tour matches, came alive with a stunning two-goal performance, reminding fans and critics alike why he remains one of the Premier League’s elite midfielders.
First Half: Captain’s Command
The match began with high energy as both teams looked to press early and dominate possession. United’s youthful lineup mixed with experienced stars, while West Ham fielded a near full-strength squad under the watchful eye of manager David Moyes.
But it was Bruno Fernandes who lit up the first half. In the 17th minute, a slick one-two with Alejandro Garnacho allowed him to dart into the box and calmly slot the ball past Lukasz Fabianski with a low, right-footed shot.
Just before halftime, Fernandes struck again. After a West Ham turnover near midfield, he pounced on the loose ball, surged forward, and unleashed a powerful long-range strike that curled into the top left corner — a true captain’s goal that brought United fans to their feet.
Half-Time Buzz
At the break, United led 2-0 and controlled much of the play, thanks to quick passing, smart movement off the ball, and Fernandes’ creativity. Social media erupted, with fans praising the Portuguese star’s “world-class precision” and “underrated leadership.”
Second Half: West Ham Fights Back, United Seals the Deal
West Ham came out with renewed purpose in the second half, pressing higher and showing greater intensity. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Jarrod Bowen latched onto a cross from Pablo Fornals and tucked it in to pull one back.
But Manchester United weren’t done. In the 74th minute, 19-year-old sensation Kobbie Mainoo continued his impressive pre-season form by sliding in a well-timed finish after a low cross from Diogo Dalot. The goal restored the two-goal cushion and effectively sealed the match.
Player of the Match: Bruno Fernandes
- Goals: 2
- Key Passes: 5
- Touches: 73
- Accuracy: 89%
Fernandes not only scored twice but also dictated the game’s tempo. His vision, passing range, and confidence were unmatched, proving he’s in peak form ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Defensive Highlights
- Andre Onana made two key saves in the second half to preserve the lead.
- Lisandro Martinez returned to form with a commanding defensive performance, snuffing out West Ham’s late attempts at a comeback.
Manager Reactions
Erik ten Hag (Man United):
“Bruno showed today why he wears the armband. He led by example, and our young players fed off that energy. We’re building something strong for the upcoming season.”
David Moyes (West Ham):
“We had a decent spell in the second half, but United’s quality was clear. These matches are about preparing — we’ll take the positives.”
Match Stats Snapshot
| Category | Man United | West Ham |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 56% | 44% |
| Shots (on goal) | 14 (6) | 10 (3) |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% | 82% |
| Fouls | 11 | 13 |
What’s Next?
- Manchester United face Real Madrid in their next tour match — a highly anticipated clash featuring Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr.
- West Ham will meet AC Milan, looking to tighten their defensive unit and fine-tune tactics before the new campaign.
Final Takeaway
Manchester United’s US pre-season tour just hit its high point thanks to a stellar Bruno Fernandes performance that reminded fans of his match-winning brilliance. With young stars emerging and senior players clicking into rhythm, Erik ten Hag’s side looks increasingly dangerous heading into the new Premier League season.
And if this match was any indicator — United fans are in for a thrilling ride in 2025-26.
