Sensational Debut: Jude Bellingham Strikes First as Real Madrid Conquer Man Utd in Houston Pre-Season Triumph

Jude Bellingham, who was named the man-of-the-match, scored his first goal wearing a Real Madrid shirt, while a remarkable scissor kick by Joselu led Manchester United to a 2-0 defeat in Houston. The match took place in Texas, just a day after the young players of Red Devils suffered a loss against Wrexham in San Diego. The game featured Erik ten Hag's first team facing off against the formidable Spanish giants.

Bellingham made his second appearance in Madrid and impressed with a beautiful goal against long-time admirers United. Joselu added a late second goal with an acrobatic finish. Ancelotti's team dominated the friendly from the sixth minute, as Bellingham scored his first goal since his £115m transfer, assisted by Rudiger.

There were doubts about whether the England player remained in an offside position, but the touch and clipped finish from 18 yards could not be ignored.

Madrid slightly dominated the game under the NRG Stadium roof, where the goalkeeper Andre Onana appeared confident in his debut but was once again outdone by a spectacular finish from Joselu, who previously played for Stoke and Newcastle.

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How Man Utd were beaten in Houston

Manchester United wrap up their US tour in Las Vegas on Sunday, facing Borussia Dortmund. It seems unlikely that Kobbie Mainoo will be part of the team.

The 18-year-old was given the opportunity to start on Wednesday, however, an initial collision forced him to hobble off the field. Meanwhile, as Madrid scored the first goal, the midfielder made his way down the touchline.

Rudiger received the ball and noticed Bellingham's dash towards the center. He skillfully controlled the pass before delicately lifting it over Onana. Remarkably, despite appearing to be a close decision, he managed to evade an offside flag.

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Andre Onana made his debut for Manchester United after his transfer from Inter Milan. Alejandro Garnacho attempted a quick equalizer by cutting in and shooting over the goal, while Mason Mount failed to cleanly strike the ball during his attempt.

Madrid appeared to be the more threatening team, squandering a chance from a pass-back before Vinicius Jr compelled Onana into making a save from a difficult position.

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford's delicate effort towards the goal yielded no result, intensifying tensions as the first half drew to a close.

Arsenal was left fuming following Lisandro Martinez's challenge on Bukayo Saka in New Jersey last Saturday. Prior to half-time, Martinez's rough tackle on Bellingham also provoked the Gunners' fury.

It was at this point that the English midfielder retaliated by shoving the Argentine player. The altercation quickly escalated, involving players from both teams, resulting in Martinez being booked.

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Bellingham expressed dissatisfaction with a challenge from Manchester United's defender, Lisandro Martinez, during the match. As part of halftime changes, Bellingham was substituted along with four other Madrid players. Fernandes had a low ball intercepted, while Garnacho's snapshot compelled Andriy Lunin to make a save by pushing it over.

Ten Hag made several changes during the second half, and substitute Scott McTominay capitalized on a powerful run from the halfway line, attempting a shot at Lunin.

The tide of the match shifted in Madrid's favor due to these alterations, as Onana exhibited good footwork to thwart Joselu's attempt before the summer signing came close once again.

Diogo Dalot made a crucial clearance just before Antony unleashed a powerful left-footed shot, and Bruno Fernandes also attempted to score towards the end of the match.

Unfortunately for Manchester United, there was one final goal, but it was scored against them. Lucas Vazquez delivered a cross from the right, and Joselu skillfully struck the ball past Onana, who was motionless, in the 89th minute.

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Ten Hag: Defeat shows why Man Utd need a striker

Erik ten Hag stressed that Manchester United's failure to capitalize on their opportunities against Real Madrid undeniably highlighted their urgent requirement for a fresh striker.

United had numerous opportunities to score, but they were not successful in converting any of their 14 attempts - a story that has become all too familiar due to their struggles in taking advantage of chances last season.

When asked about whether the offensive performance in Texas highlighted the need to recruit a new striker, Ten Hag confirmed, "Without a doubt."

"We require players who excel in one-on-one situations, which would enhance our pressing tactics and goal-scoring abilities."

Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, and Garnacho all had opportunities in one-on-one situations, and it is essential to convert such chances into goals. Manchester United are currently in negotiations to sign Atalanta's striker Rasmus Hojlund, while also exploring other attacking options to strengthen their squad.

The Old Trafford side have already brought in Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount and Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana this summer, with the latter making his bow in Houston.

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Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund is wanted by Manchester United

"I think good, solid," Ten Hag said of Onana's display. "Two very good saves.

"He was there in the moment the team needed him, so he did his job. I think he integrated well into our team.

"This is our initial game and there is much work to be done in both our offensive and defensive areas. As evidenced by the second goal, we were not effectively covering the back post. Such lapses cannot happen, as they will inevitably result in conceding goals."

"There are things that are rules we have to follow, and they'll come quick, that we integrate that into our way of play."

The main negative on the night was the early injury to Kobbie Mainoo.

The 18-year-old made quite an impression from the beginning during the game against Arsenal on Saturday. He was given the opportunity to start the match in Houston, but unfortunately, his night ended with him needing crutches and wearing a protective boot on his left foot.

"After a game, it's difficult to determine the severity of an injury, so we'll have to wait and see," Ten Hag commented. "Hopefully, it's not too serious, as that would mean more opportunities for him."

"I wanted to see on which levels he could play.

"Against Arsenal, we were pleased with his performance, so I wanted to see if he can repeat that some days after.

"From thereon, we set conclusions and now I just have to wait for the diagnosis. Then from thereon, we will set conclusions."

'I'm enjoying it' - Bellingham on start to life in Madrid

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Bellingham netted the first goal for Real Madrid during the game in Houston. Jude Bellingham's initial weeks as a member of Real Madrid have been delightful, and he holds a strong belief in contributing towards the fulfillment of the ambitious goals of the Spanish giants.

Bellingham expressed his satisfaction with the game, stating, "I appear to be enjoying it, at least that's what I like to think. Everything's going well so far."

"I am enjoying playing with this team, learning from so many great players. I am definitely not getting carried away just yet.

"There are big challenges to come this season.

"There is a great deal to strive for and rightfully so. It stands as the largest club with the most exceptional players. The expectations are elevated, as they rightfully should be. Our task is to step onto the field and meet those expectations."

Bellingham acknowledges his gradual improvement in Spanish but acknowledges that he finds the language challenging - undoubtedly more difficult than adjusting to his new environment.

Bellingham expressed his admiration for Real's standards and the dedication displayed by everyone during training. He truly appreciates the elite level of professionalism, which he believes he can easily match. "I had full confidence in joining this team as I was aware of the exceptional skills possessed by the players," Bellingham stated. He also mentioned that he is well aware of his own abilities and feels that he has seamlessly integrated into the team.

Man Utd's pre-season fixtures and results

The role I am currently fulfilling is quite enjoyable. I had a satisfactory performance in the game against AC Milan, and I can say the same for today's match. My main objective now is to maintain this rhythm as we progress through the season.

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