Manchester United’s UEFA Europa League campaign began on a disappointing note as they battled to a draw with FC Twente, a Dutch side where United boss Erik Ten Hag started his career.
Erik Ten Hag, United’s head coach, expressed his reluctance to harm his former club, and his sentiments proved prophetic as FC Twente left Old Trafford with a valuable point.
United made several changes to their lineup from the game against Crystal Palace on Sunday. Matthias De Ligt, Kobbie Mainoo, and Alejandro Garnacho were dropped, with Harry Maguire, Manuel Ugarte, and Marcus Rashford coming into the side.
United dominated possession in the opening exchanges, displaying slick passing between the midfield and attack. However, they struggled to break through Twente’s defense, and the opposition managed to get some shots in the opening minutes.
Show-stopping reflexes and athleticism 🧤💫
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) September 25, 2024
Enjoy some amazing saves from the opening night…#UELsaves | @Betano_PT pic.twitter.com/ifFFluxKZF
A breakthrough came when a pass found Diogo Dalot marked in the box. The ball was snatched by Christian Eriksen on the far left of the area, who sent a fizzing shot into the net to give United the lead.
The game was 1-0 in favor of United at halftime. However, in the second half, FC Twente grew into the game, creating more chances. A mistake from Christian Eriksen saw the ball snatched by Sam Lammers, whose surge into the United penalty area ended with a shot that flew past Andre Onana for the equalizer.
The match ended in a draw, marking FC Twente’s third draw against English opposition. United’s struggles in Europe continue, with only one win in their last eight fixtures.
United now sit in eleventh place, though several sides have yet to begin their campaign. They will face Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in the Premier League.
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