Everton Defy the Odds at Old Trafford
In a truly remarkable Premier League encounter, Everton etched their name into the history books with a stunning 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. The match on November 24, 2025, will be remembered not just for the result, but for the extraordinary circumstances in which it was achieved, leaving home manager Ruben Amorim facing a chastening defeat on his 12-month anniversary in charge.
Chaos and Controversy: Gueye's Moment of Madness
The game was turned on its head after just 13 minutes in a moment of pure madness. Everton's Idrissa Gueye was shown a straight red card by referee Tony Harrington for striking his own teammate, Michael Keane, following an on-pitch clash between the two players. Gueye had to be escorted off the pitch by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, while a bemused Keane waved him away.
Conventional wisdom suggested this would hand the initiative to the home side, but Everton, managed by former United boss David Moyes, had other ideas. Against all odds, the ten men took the lead on the 29-minute mark through a spectacular strike from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
United's Frustration and Everton's Heroic Defence
Manchester United, missing the injured Matheus Cunha, struggled to break down a resolute Everton defence. Patrick Dorgu shot wide from a promising position, and Amad Diallo also failed to hit the target. United's captain, Bruno Fernandes, saw a long-range piledriver expertly saved by the exceptional Jordan Pickford.
As United grew more desperate, manager Amorim brought on Mason Mount in search of a spark. Mount curled a shot agonisingly wide, and Pickford was again on hand to make crucial saves, denying Bryan Mbeumo and producing two world-class stops to keep out headers from Joshua Zirkzee, who was making his first start in 225 days.
At the heart of Everton's heroic rearguard action was the very man involved in the early controversy, Michael Keane, who made a series of crucial blocks and tackles to preserve the lead and secure a famous three points.
A Historic and Symbolic Victory
This victory was laden with significance. It ended Manchester United's six-game unbeaten run and made Everton the first side in Premier League history to win at Old Trafford after having a player sent off. For David Moyes, it was a long-awaited and deeply symbolic personal triumph, marking his first ever victory at Old Trafford as an opposition manager. The result also lifted Everton above rivals Liverpool in the Premier League table, adding further sweetness to an already unforgettable night.
