Maitland-Niles debut goal secures Everton 2-2 draw vs Man Utd

Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a stunning stoppage-time equalizer on his Everton debut to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Manchester United at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on September 6, 2026. The former Arsenal midfielder, signed on transfer deadline day, curled a long-range effort into the top corner in the 96th minute to rescue a point for the hosts after they had twice fallen behind. The match began with a goalless first half, though Manchester United controlled much of the play. Bruno Fernandes struck the crossbar early with a volley, and Marcus Rashford consistently created problems for Everton's defense. Everton's best chance came just before halftime when Jarrad Branthwaite's effort was saved by goalkeeper Senne Lammens. United needed only a minute of the second half to take the lead. Kobbie Mainoo found Bryan Mbeumo on the right, and the winger cut inside before curling a superb left-footed finish into the bottom-left corner. Everton struggled to respond initially, but James Tarkowski made a crucial sliding challenge to deny Matheus Cunha after a clever backheel from Rashford. The hosts began to build pressure and were rewarded in the 83rd minute.