Manchester United 2-4 Cadiz: Reds test themselves in Spain ahead of post-World Cup return

Manchester United fell to a 4-2 defeat in a friendly with La Liga side Cádiz on Wednesday, despite coming back from two goals down to temporarily draw level at the Nuevo Mirandilla. It’s the first of two friendlies the Reds will play in Spain ahead of their return to action after the World Cup, and gave Erik ten Hag the chance to freshen up his squad.

United’s starting lineup included seven players that have featured in the Premier League so far this season — Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Scott McTominay, Donny van de Beek, Alejandro Garnacho, Anthony Elanga and Martial.

After quickly falling two goals behind, United started their comeback when 19-year-old midfielder Zidane Iqbal was fouled in the box and Martial scored from the penalty spot with a Panenka.

Kobbie Mainoo, a 17-year-old midfielder who has yet to make his competitive first-team debut, then drew the visitors level with a deflected effort from just inside the box.

Both sides made wholesale changes at half-time with United substituting all 10 outfield players and Cadiz making nine alterations. It was the hosts that adapted the better, going on to score the victory.

Erik ten Hag’s side will also take on Real Betis in Spain on Saturday before competitive games return following the World Cup with a Carabao Cup round of 16 matchup at home to Burnley on Dec. 21 — three days after the World Cup final.