Harry Maguire Steals the Spotlight with Late Equalizer

"I understand how things operate," said Harry Maguire, voicing his support for Erik ten Hag after his late goal secured a crucial point in Porto.

Harry Maguire salvaged a dramatic draw for Manchester United, who played with 10 men after Bruno Fernandes was sent off as they faced Porto in the Europa League. This late equalizer, coming in the first of five added minutes, could prove crucial for manager Erik ten Hag, who has been under pressure with his team struggling to find form early in the season.

United initially took control of the match with Marcus Rashford scoring in the seventh minute, cleverly beating two defenders before his near-post shot slipped past Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Rasmus Hojlund doubled the lead just 20 minutes in, finishing a swift United attack. However, Porto quickly responded. Joao Mario’s cross led to a rebound goal from Pepe and soon after Samu Omorodion leveled the score with a powerful header.

The turnaround was complete five minutes after halftime when Samu scored again from a Pepe cutback. Things worsened for United when Fernandes received a second yellow card reducing them to 10 men with nine minutes remaining. Despite Porto’s missed opportunities to extend their lead, Harry Maguire’s late header from Christian Eriksen’s corner secured a point for United.

While the draw will offer some relief to Ten Hag, the match highlighted ongoing vulnerabilities in United’s defense particularly following their early two-goal advantage. With only three wins in their first ten matches and crucial fixtures ahead including a clash against Aston Villa, questions remain about Ten Hag’s management and whether he can rectify the issues plaguing the squad.

Cataleya