Late Maguire header earns point in chaotic Porto draw
Equaliser!
By Chris O'Brien
October 3 2024
Harry Maguire headed home a late equaliser as ten-man Manchester United shared the spoils with Porto in a topsy-turvy Europa League tie.
The competition's shocking new format (scrap it!) sent United to Portugal for their second game, following a disappointing 1-1 draw with FC Twente last time out.
United were back in action amid intense speculation about the future of manager Erik ten Hag, following the weekend's 3-0 reverse at the hands of Spurs and a bitterly slow start to the new campaign.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United's footballing hierarchy are widely anticipated to make a decision on the Dutchman's future during the upcoming international break - and United's performance against Bayern Munich slayers Aston Villa could yet be crucial.
But ten Hag must have felt the pressure ease as his men got off to the best possible start in Portugal. Marcus Rashford's impressive build-up work but gentle shot were too much for Porto stopper Diogo Costa, before Rasmus Hojlund doubled the lead on 20 minutes as United showed earlyattacking intent.
However, Porto were level by the break - thanks to headers from Pepe and Samu Omorodion.
Omorodion struck again just five minutes after the interval, as United's grip on a commanding position withered away - and things got even worse for the visitors when captain Bruno Fernandes was given his marching orders for a second bookable offence on 81 minutes.
However, Maguire had the final say as met Christian Eriksen's corner with a trademark header to restore parity, and leave United in 21st-placed in the new ridiculous 36-team league.
United's next Europa League game is in Turkey at the end of October - and intense speculation will continue as to whether ten Hag will be in the hot seat by the time the Red Devils go to Turkey.
Full Time - Porto 3-3 Manchester United