Manchester United came from behind to claim an encouraging 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in a competitive pre-season friendly, with summer signing Bryan Mbeumo stealing the spotlight through a second-half brace.

The Spanish side made the brighter start and needed just five minutes to break the deadlock. Arnau Ortiz finished calmly after being picked out by Koke, giving Atlético an early advantage and forcing United to respond.

Despite falling behind, the Red Devils gradually gained control of possession and created several chances before the interval.

Their persistence finally paid off shortly after the restart when Mbeumo converted confidently from the penalty spot after Atlético conceded a foul inside the box.

The Cameroon international continued his impressive display by completing the turnaround in the 74th minute.

The forward found space inside the area before firing home to cap an impressive individual performance and underline why Manchester United moved to secure his signature this summer.

Atlético attempted to force an equaliser in the closing stages and came close when Morten Hjulmand struck the woodwork, but United defended resolutely to preserve their lead.

The Premier League side enjoyed a slight edge in possession with 54 percent of the ball and completed 445 passes at an accuracy rate of 87 percent.

Both teams matched each other physically, committing 16 fouls apiece in a hard-fought contest.

The victory provides another confidence boost for Manchester United as preparations for the new campaign continue.

Mbeumo’s goals, coupled with disciplined defending and promising performances from several young players introduced during the second half, will give the coaching staff plenty of positives ahead of the Premier League season.