Porto vs Manchester United Report
Scorers: Pepe 27’, Samu 34’, 50’; Rashford 7’, Hojlund 20’, Maguire 90+2’
Red Card: Fernandes 81’
Manchester United salvaged a 3-3 draw against Porto, relying on a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser from Harry Maguire after letting a two-goal lead slip away in a thrilling UEFA Europa League fixture.
First Half: United’s Early Dominance and Porto’s Comeback
Porto started brightly, but it was Manchester United who made the breakthrough just before the seven-minute mark. Marcus Rashford showcased his skill by cutting in from the left, weaving through challenges from Stephen Eustáquio and João Mário, and slotting the ball under Diogo Costa at his near post to give United the lead.
A second goal quickly followed in a strong spell for the visitors, with Rashford playing a key role again. The forward drifted inside and set up Rasmus Højlund, who fired past Costa at the near post for United’s second.
Despite the early setback, Porto rallied and managed to level the score within a scintillating seven-minute spell. João Mário’s quality deliveries into the box caused havoc in United’s defence, with the first cross leading to an own goal scare from Noussair Mazraoui, who inadvertently forced a save from André Onana.
Pepê reacted first to the rebound, bundling the ball into the net to reduce the deficit. Moments later, another pinpoint cross from João Mário found Samu, who out-jumped Matthijs de Ligt and headed powerfully into the roof of the net, making it 2-2.
Second Half: Rashford Injury, Porto Take the Lead, and Late Drama
United faced a setback as Rashford was forced off at halftime, and the tide soon turned in Porto’s favour.
Nico González released Pepê down the right, who in turn set up Samu for his second goal of the match—a near-post finish that smashed into the top corner and completed Porto’s comeback to lead 3-2.
United’s situation worsened when captain Bruno Fernandes was shown a second yellow card for a high boot, reducing the visitors to ten men for the second consecutive game.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, United continued to fight. Porto had a golden chance to seal the win through Deniz Gül, but his missed opportunity proved to be costly.
In stoppage time, United earned a corner and Harry Maguire, who came on as a substitute, rose highest to powerfully head the ball into the net, securing a crucial point for his side and ending the match in a 3-3 draw.
United’s Struggles and Porto’s Performance
For the fourth consecutive European away game, Manchester United failed to secure a victory despite scoring three goals. Erik ten Hag’s side showed resilience to come back late, but their defensive frailties and lack of discipline—highlighted by Fernandes’ red card—remained evident.
The draw puts added pressure on United ahead of their weekend clash with Aston Villa, a match that could be pivotal in determining the future of their manager.
Key Moments
- Rashford’s Opener (7′): Marcus Rashford brilliantly weaves through defenders to give United the lead.
- Højlund Doubles the Lead (22′): Rasmus Højlund scores from a Rashford assist, beating Costa at his near post.
- Porto’s Quickfire Comeback (29′, 36′): Pepê and Samu level the score with two quick goals from João Mário’s crosses.
- Samu’s Brace (56′): Samu completes Porto’s comeback with a near-post strike.
- Maguire’s Late Equaliser (90+3′): Harry Maguire heads in a stoppage-time goal to rescue a draw for United.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s inability to hold onto their early lead against a resilient Porto side resulted in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
With ten Hag’s future potentially hinging on their next match against Aston Villa, United will need to regroup and address their defensive shortcomings. Meanwhile, Porto will take heart from their comeback performance, although they’ll be disappointed not to have held onto their lead.
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Porto vs Man Utd | UEFA Europa League 2024/25