Football Today
·25 September 2024
Football Today
·25 September 2024
Manchester United got their Europa League campaign underway with a 1-1 draw with FC Twente at Old Trafford this evening.
Erik ten Hag fielded a strong side against his former club. Harry Maguire, Marcus Rashford and Manuel Ugarte replaced Matthijs de Ligt, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
It was a very open game, with both sides struggling to gain control in midfield.
Christian Eriksen put Man United ahead with a great shot into the top corner.
However, he turned into a villain in the second half, as his mistake allowed the visitors to equalise.
Ten Hag ran a few changes in the final ten minutes, but United never looked threatening in the final third.
Let’s get into the player ratings.
Andre Onana – 5/10
Onana made a fine yet expected save from the free-kick but was beaten easily at his near-post for the equaliser.
Noussair Mazraoui – 7/10
He was exceptionally composed and efficient with the ball at his feet.
Harry Maguire – 6/10
Maguire tested the goalkeeper’s resolve in injury time and made no mistakes at the back. He should have been more incisive with his ball distribution.
Lisandro Martinez – 7/10
The Argentine delivered his best performance of the season. He defended the box well, won duels and showed good passing range.
However, he earned an unnecessary yellow card.
Diogo Dalot – 7/10
The full-back messed up with a straightforward clearance and almost gifted the lead to the visitors.
He is doing a superb job as an inverted midfielder. He is technically sound and Ten Hag is making use of that quality.
Christian Eriksen – 5/10
Eriksen showcased his brilliance with a sensational finish in his fourth consecutive start. However, he was caught in possession, which allowed FC Twente to equalise.
Manuel Ugarte – 6/10
Ugarte displayed his hunger to tackle when his side was out of possession. He must start against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
Bruno Fernandes – 4/10
The United skipper showed good vision to find Dalot during the build up to Eriksen’s goal. However, he was ineffective for the majority of the game.
His form is crucial to United’s success.
Marcus Rashford – 6/10
Rashford started the night with great energy. He took on the defenders and showed great trickery, including three nutmegs before the break.
He fired a cross into the six-yard box for Zirkzee, but the ball was too fast for the striker to make any connection. His performance tailed off in the second half.
Amad Diallo – 4/10
One great attacking run in the opposition’s box, but he must do more if he wants to keep hold of his place.
Joshua Zirkzee – 6/10
The Dutchman connected nicely with Rashford early on and was crucial in link-up play.
Alejandro Garnacho – 6/10
He saw more of the ball when he switched to the left flank. He failed to inspire United to a victory but showed great defensive work to track back in the 92nd minute.
Kobbie Mainoo – N/A
Too late to rate.
Rasmus Hojlund – N/A
Too late to rate.
Mason Mount – N/A
Too late to rate.