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United Let Two-Goal Lead Slip, Maguire to the Rescue
Manchester United was cruising at halftime in their Europa League tie with Porto after Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund each scored in the first half to give the visitors a comfortable 2-0 lead. However, defensive woes allowed Porto to mount a comeback, assuming a 3-2 lead into the game's final minutes, but Harry Maguire headed home a late equalizer to salvage a 3-3 draw.
Promising Start Fades Fast
Coming off a tough loss at Tottenham, Erik ten Hag's side came out with much gusto early. Rashford saw an opening goal in only the third minute off a Hojlund chance that finished off another opportunity. Porto was in disarray from their opening loss in the Europa League and looked destined for defeat. United's defense crumbled though, and Pepe managed to half that deficit Samu Omorodion leveled things going into halftime.
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Omorodion's Brace and United's Defensive Struggles
With Rashford subbed off at half-time, Porto were starting to push for an equalizing goal. Omorodion scored his second of the game, once again courtesy of the United side's woeful clearances. Matters worsened after Bruno Fernandes was sent off for his second high-footed challenge, leaving United down to 10 men.
Maguire's Last-Gasp Strike
Time was running out when a substitute Harry Maguire headed Christian Eriksen's corner in the 91st minute to lift the draw for the ten-man Red Devils. In the meantime, United's tendency to concede multiple goals outside of Old Trafford has perhaps become a more grave reason to worry even after this draw.
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Defensive Woes Continue
It questions some things for Ten Hag, though, considering how weak United looked at the back, especially in games on the road in Europe. Maguire was on hand to chip in for them, but again, they cannot protect leads away from home, and that is something they need to work on.
Player of the Match: Samu Omorodion
Porto's youngster was always a threat, scoring twice and keeping United's defense on its toes. He moved about with this instinctive finishing, which made him the player of the night.
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