Sesko's counter-attack goal a thrilling sight in modern football

As more teams focus on avoiding mistakes, counter-attacking goals are becoming rarer but remain a viable route to score

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A brilliantly executed counter-attack goal by Benjamin Sesko for Manchester United against Everton showcased the drama and skill involved in such plays, which are becoming less common across Europe's top leagues as teams prioritize defensive solidity. Experts say the speed, precision, and intrigue of counter-attacking goals make them a joy to watch, even as the playing space required for such attacks is being denied by more compact defensive blocks.

Why it matters

Counter-attacking goals provide memorable moments in otherwise mundane games, highlighting the problem-solving abilities of skilled players working at a breakneck pace. While big teams will always seek additional ways to score, counter-attacks remain a viable route to goal, testing a team's ability to quickly transition from defense to offense.

The details

Sesko's goal, which saw him sprint 70 yards to meet a cutback pass and score with a one-touch finish, was the culmination of a slick counter-attack involving several Manchester United players. Such goals are becoming rarer across Europe's top leagues compared to five years ago, as more teams focus on compact defensive blocks that deny the space required for fast breaks.

  • In the 70th minute, Benjamin Sesko started the counter-attack from near his own penalty area.
  • Four minutes earlier, Manchester United had a failed counter-attack attempt when Matheus Cunha took too long to release the ball to Sesko.

The players

Benjamin Sesko

A 22-year-old Slovenian striker playing for Manchester United, known for his pace and clinical finishing.

Luke Shaw

An English defender who played a key pass in the build-up to Sesko's goal.

Matheus Cunha

A Brazilian midfielder who launched the cross-field pass that started the counter-attack.

Bryan Mbeumo

A French winger who provided the cutback pass that Sesko scored from.

Arne Slot

The head coach of Liverpool, who discussed the importance of counter-attacks against low defensive blocks.

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What they’re saying

“To create chances against a low block, you need pace, individual special moments to create an overload. You don't see a lot of 15-20-pass goals against low blocks. Another way is to create a counter-attack or win the ball high up the pitch when they want to bring the ball out from the back.”

— Arne Slot, Liverpool head coach (Sky Sports)

“It looks so easy, but because you have so much time. Many things on your mind. But I chose for one corner, and I went fully for that.”

— Benjamin Sesko

The takeaway

While counter-attacking goals are becoming rarer in modern football, they remain a thrilling and viable route to score, testing a team's ability to quickly transition from defense to offense and showcasing the problem-solving skills of skilled players working at a breakneck pace.