Manchester United’s fifth pre-season fixture saw them face Leeds United in a closely contested clash as the Reds continued their preparations for the 2026/27 campaign.

Leeds started brightly and looked to control possession, but United soon created opportunities through Joshua Zirkzee and Diogo Dalot, both of whom were denied by James Trafford.

United took the lead in the 15th minute after Bryan Mbeumo produced a superb turn to launch a counter-attack. He found Zirkzee on the edge of the box, and the Dutchman made no mistake with a first-time finish.

Leeds responded in the 29th minute, with Brenden Aaronson firing home from close range after United were caught open defensively. Mbeumo came close to restoring the lead shortly after, rattling the crossbar with a powerful effort, but the sides went into the break level at 1-1.

The second half was a quieter affair, with chances at a premium. Bruno Fernandes thought he had put United ahead in the 80th minute with an excellent finish, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. The captain also struck the bar late on as neither side could find a winner.

The match ultimately finished 1-1 after 90 minutes, sending the contest to penalties. United held their nerve to prevail 5-4 in the shootout.

Despite not getting a victory in 90 minutes, it was a good workout for Michael Carrick's side, and the prospect of competing in a penalty shootout in front of 85,000 fans is also beneficial.

The Manchester United boss, speaking after the game, was full of praise for Jack Fletcher after he confidently dispatched his spot-kick.

"I was really encouraged by a lot of things, but Jack stepping up to take the penalty, having the confidence to do that. It was great and what you need," explained Carrick.

"There are going to be things that don't go your way, and you have got to have that belief and keep going, keep trying. I'm delighted with all of them [the academy players], to be honest."

Fletcher also came close to scoring in the game after a great run from Noussair Mazraoui, but his effort was deflected wide.

Still, the 19-year-old had the confidence to step up and take a penalty in a pressured environment and help United win the shootout.

The Fletcher twins are a great example of why fans should not judge academy talent too quickly or harshly.

Jack Fletcher was the standout of the two when they arrived from Manchester City and excelled in the Under-18s, while his brother Tyler played a minimal part due to injuries.

But now it is Tyler who has shined and looks the more likely of the two to potentially contribute to the first team next season.

It is difficult to judge these youngsters, and development is never linear – even for identical twins. Manchester United will judge the best way for them to spend next season, but it is clear that they are both highly rated within the club.