Manchester United staged a dramatic comeback to salvage a point against Porto in a thrilling Europa League encounter.
Four days after a humiliating defeat to Tottenham, United showcased a much-improved performance in Portugal. Early goals from Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund gave them a comfortable lead, but defensive lapses allowed Porto to claw back into the match.
Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off for the second consecutive game, adding to United’s challenges. However, Harry Maguire’s late header from a Christian Eriksen corner secured a crucial point.
“We will get there,” Ten Hag told TNT Sports.
Don’t judge us in this moment, judge us at the end of the season.”
“We are in the process, we will improve. We have had two seasons where we have reached finals, we will continue and fight.”
Despite the positive result, the manner of the performance leaves much to be desired ahead of their Premier League clash with Aston Villa.
United started the match brightly, with Rashford scoring a well-taken goal in the seventh minute. They continued to press forward and doubled their lead through Hojlund in the 20th minute.
However, Porto fought back, with Pepe reducing the deficit in the 27th minute. United’s defensive struggles were exposed again as Samu Omorodion scored twice to give Porto a 3-2 lead.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams having chances to win. United will be relieved to have avoided a disappointing defeat, but they need to improve their defensive performance if they want to achieve their goals this season.