Manchester United's mishaps continue after surviving Porto scare in Europa League

Manchester United blew a two-goal lead, ultimately settling for a 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League. Late heroics from Harry Maguire saved them from defeat, but criticism of their performance continues to mount.

In Short

• United blew a two-goal lead, drawing 3-3 with Porto
• Bruno Fernandes received a second yellow, leaving United with 10 men
• Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time header salvaged a crucial point

Manchester United’s rough run of form continued after they squandered a two-goal lead to settle for a 3-3 draw against Porto in their Europa League clash on October 4. United started strong, with early goals from Rasmus H¸jlund in the 7th minute and Marcus Rashford in the 20th, giving the side a commanding advantage. However, they struggled to maintain their composure and allowed Porto to claw back into the match.

Having already suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, pressure was mounting on manager Erik ten Hag to secure a positive result in this European fixture. Unfortunately for United, the draw only added fuel to the criticism the team has faced in recent weeks.

Adding to United's woes, they went down to 10 men once again after captain Bruno Fernandes was shown a second yellow card, just a couple of days after his suspension from the Tottenham game was overturned. Porto quickly capitalized on United's defensive lapses, with veteran defender Pepe scoring in the 27th minute. Samu Omorodion followed with two goals—one in the 34th minute and another just after halftime in the 50th minute—to push Porto ahead.

Despite their struggles, United managed to salvage a point thanks to a stoppage-time header from Harry Maguire. His late equalizer spared them the embarrassment of back-to-back defeats, but it was not enough to hide the mounting concerns over the team’s performances.

This latest result makes it two draws in two Europa League matches for Ten Hag’s United, who are now under increasing scrutiny to turn their season around. The pressure is only set to grow as the side seeks to find consistency and fight their way out of a tough start to the campaign.