Manchester United Saved by Super-Sub Obi in Friendly Clash with Hong Kong

Manchester United took on Hong Kong in their second post-season match, hoping to recover from their earlier defeat to the ASEAN All-Stars.

The Red Devils were left disappointed in their first friendly of the tour, as the fans, who had turned out in good numbers, expressed their frustration with a chorus of boos as the team left the pitch.

Manager Ruben Amorim and his squad seized the opportunity to restore some pride against Hong Kong, amidst heavy rain and warm temperatures of 24 degrees.

This match marked the farewell appearance for defender Jonny Evans, who is set to depart when his contract concludes this summer. Captain Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho also played, both of whom are attracting attention with transfer offers amid reports of a rift with Amorim.

In a disappointing first half, United faltered before the 20-minute mark, with Juninho striking a powerful shot that eluded goalkeeper Tom Heaton, handing Hong Kong a 1-0 advantage.

The rain continued to pour, leading to substitutions before half-time for Casemiro and Shea Lacy, effectively ending their Asia tour prematurely.

As the teams headed into the break, Hong Kong held a slender lead, leaving a furious Amorim to chastise his players for their lacklustre performance, despite the challenging conditions.

United made a complete overhaul of the squad at half-time, introducing Ayden Heaven, Amad, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Chido Obi in a bid to turn the tide.

Amorim’s team talk seemed to inspire a response, with Chido Obi equalising after skillfully turning and unleashing a left-footed strike into the bottom corner, making it 1-1.

In the final ten minutes, United looked sharp in attack, with Amad, Mount, and Chido Obi igniting a sense of urgency that had been missing in the first half.

Chido Obi showcased his talent by netting his second of the match in the 82nd minute, cleverly heading the ball into the bottom corner after another brilliant assist from Mount.

The 17-year-old’s standout performance could signal to Amorim that he is well-prepared for a more prominent role in the first-team setup.

As the match drew to a close, young defender Heaven added a third goal for United, nodding in from an Amad delivery, sealing the game at 3-1 – a result that felt a bit harsh on the Hong Kong side.

With the full-time whistle blown, Hojlund looked on as Chido Obi exited the pitch after a transformative display, preparing for his future alongside new signing Matheus Cunha.

Next season will see intense competition for spots in United’s attack. With Hojlund and strike partner Joshua Zirkzee facing off against Cunha and Chido Obi, the duo may find themselves spending more time on the bench as Amorim re-evaluates his squad.