AFCON 2025
Manchester United snatched a last-gasp 3-3 draw away to FC Porto in yet another disappointing display.
The Red Devils and Erik ten Hag were hoping for the chance to kickstart their Europa League campaign by winning in an intimidating Estádio do Dragao.
The team was under immense pressure after three disappointing results on the bounce against Crystal Palace, FC Twente, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Porto 3-3 Man Utd: As It Happened
Porto’s bright start was undone on seven minutes as Marcus Rashford burst into the box, evading Stephen Eustáquio and João Mário, and slotted past Diogo Costa at the near post. Rashford then turned provider, feeding Rasmus Hojlund, who beat the flailing Costa again.
But Porto rallied, levelling with two goals in seven minutes. Joao Mario’s quality crosses did the damage. Noussair Mazraoui’s header under pressure from Samu Omorodion was directed towards Onana’s goal, and Pepe pounced on the goalkeeper’s weak save to bundle home.
Moments later, Samu thundered a header past Onana to tie the game.
Rashford’s halftime withdrawal hurt United, and Porto capitalized. Nico González released Pepe down the right, and his pull-back found Samu, who smashed into the top corner.
United’s woes deepened when Bruno Fernandes received a second yellow card for a high boot – his second consecutive sending-off.
Deniz Gül’s miss proved costly as substitute Harry Maguire equalized with a stunning stoppage-time header from a corner.
For the fourth European away game running, the Red Devils failed to win despite scoring three. A positive result at Aston Villa on Sunday may be crucial for Erik ten Hag’s Manchester future.
