Manchester United beaten by Bayern Munich in inaugural World Sevens final

Manchester United missed out on the title to Bayern Munich at the inaugural World Sevens tournament in Portugal.

Marc Skinner’s side defeated Manchester City 2-0 in the semi-finals and took the lead against Bayern in the seven-a-side event but ultimately fell to a 2-1 loss.

United’s efforts still earned them one million euros (approximately £840,000), with Bayern taking home 2.5million euros (approximately £2.1million).

United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce and Bayern counterpart Ena Mahmutovic had both made good saves before United took the lead just before half-time against the run of play, Melvine Malard setting up Simi Awujo for a fizzing finish.

But Bayern responded strongly and Momoko Tanikawa, who scored twice in their 5-0 semi-final win over Paris St Germain, equalised before Sarah Zadrazil struck the winner with three minutes remaining.

Ella Toone sat out Friday’s matches with what the PA news agency understands is some tightness, with the England star keen not to take any risks ahead of the European Championship.

Earlier, goals from Malard and Gabby George were enough to give United victory over City.

Malard opened the scoring in only the fourth minute with a terrific volley into the top corner that gave Khiara Keating no chance.

Keating was a key last line of defence for City in the remainder of the first half, though, denying Grace Clinton and Malard again with fine saves.

United kept up the pressure at the start of the second period of 15 minutes and Clinton hit the crossbar before George made sure of the victory with a near-post finish.

City eventually finished fourth after losing 3-1 to PSG in the third-placed play-off.