Man Utd Rise Into Premier League Top Four

Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko struck a decisive goal off the bench to secure a 1–0 victory for Manchester United against Everton, propelling the Red Devils into the Premier League’s top four. The win also extended the team’s impressive run under interim manager Michael Carrick, who has overseen a remarkable turnaround in recent weeks.

Since taking charge, Carrick has seen Sesko yet to start a match in his six appearances. Nevertheless, the young forward has repeatedly made a significant impact as a substitute. This latest contribution marks the third time Sesko has rescued the team from the bench, having previously scored late goals in two separate fixtures to earn a win and a draw.

At Goodison Park, Sesko replaced Amad Diallo in the 58th minute. Just 13 minutes later, he capitalised on a swift counter-attack, calmly slotting the ball past the Everton goalkeeper in the 71st minute. This was Sesko’s sixth goal in his last seven matches, highlighting his growing influence on the squad’s attacking dynamics.

The goal itself was a product of precise teamwork. Mateus Cunha delivered a long, incisive pass, which Bryan Mbeumo collected, evaded a defender, and played into Sesko’s path, allowing the Manchester United forward to finish with composure.

Despite enjoying greater possession in the first half, United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Early on, James Tarkowski cleared a Diallo shot off the line to deny the visitors, while attempts by Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes failed to find the target.

Everton attempted to assert themselves in the second half, with Harrison Armstrong coming close, but he could not convert his chance. In the dying moments, Michael Keane’s long-range effort was brilliantly saved by United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, securing United’s first away clean sheet since March.

The victory sees Manchester United claim their fifth win in six matches under Carrick, moving them up to fourth in the Premier League standings with 48 points from 27 games. They trail third-placed Aston Villa by just three points. Meanwhile, Everton remain ninth with 37 points from 27 games, dealing a blow to their hopes of qualifying for European competition. The defeat continues a winless streak at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, where David Moyes’ side have now gone seven matches without a victory.

Premier League Standings After 27 Matches

Manchester United’s continued momentum under Carrick, coupled with Sesko’s knack for late interventions, demonstrates a squad capable of challenging for a Champions League spot this season. Everton, however, must urgently address their struggles at home if they hope to remain in contention for European football next term.