Gabriele Biancheri came off the bench to score a late winner in front of the Stretford End for Manchester United under-21s.
Travis Binnion was happy to see his Manchester United under-21 side win their first match in the Premier League International Cup, beating Athletic Club 2-1 under the floodlights at Old Trafford.
The young United side had to force a comeback after going behind in the 12th minute when Asier Hierro curled in a free-kick from the edge of the box.
United could have no complaints at the break because their Spanish opponents were the better side for most of the first half, until Binnion made wholesale changes to turn the game on its head in the second half.
Gabriele Biancheri was among four substitutes to come on in the 61st minute, replacing Victor Musa before assisting James Scanlon for the equalising goal.
To win the match, Biancheri sent his effort in off the post to clinch the 2-1 win with the final kick of the game.
Man Utd youngsters hail Gabriele Biancheri
After scoring 25 goals for United’s academy teams last term, Biancheri will be aiming to maintain that level of scoring goals this year to continue his development as a United player.
Only time will tell if the Wales U21 international will make the grade in United’s first team, but he is certainly going the right way about it, by impressing his peers in the under-21 team.
Biancheri’s goal against Athletic Club was his first of the season, so he will be thrilled to get up and running.
The 19-year-old took to Instagram after the match last night to share three pictures, along with the caption: “Late one at OT *football emoji* All glory to God.”
This prompted responses from several United academy players.
Shea Lacey wrote: “Deserve it brother *heart emoji*”
Meanwhile, Chido Obi commented: “Vamoss”
United loanee Ethan Wheatley, who is currently playing for Northampton Town, said: “This is what he does.”
Other players to comment on Biancheri’s post include Samuel Lusale, Rhys Bennett, Jack Fletcher and Jacob Devaney.
Biancheri was wanted by several clubs on loan during the summer, but United decided to keep him at the club to continue his development.
What’s next for Man Utd U21s?
United are unbeaten in the Premier League 2 this season.
Wins over Middlesbrough, Norwich, Man City and Liverpool have Binnion’s side in a strong position.
Their next game is on Saturday when they take on Crystal Palace at 2pm.
That fixture is followed by a trip to Lincoln for the English Football League Trophy.
United also travel to Everton in the Premier League 2 on Friday, October 3.
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