Harry Maguire's Heroics Save Manchester United in 3-3 Europa League Thriller
ICARO Media Group
**Harry Maguire Rescues 10-Man Manchester United in Thrilling 3-3 Europa League Draw with Porto**
Manchester United narrowly avoided another humiliating defeat on Thursday, thanks to a clutch performance from substitute Harry Maguire. The centre-back came off the bench to secure a 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League, a match that showcased both the strengths and vulnerabilities of Erik ten Hag's team.
The Red Devils appeared to be in control early on, with Marcus Rashford putting them ahead just seven minutes into the game. Rashford displayed his skill by slicing through two Porto defenders and beating goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who arguably should have done better. Riding high on early momentum, Rashford then set up a second goal, delivering a precise pass to Rasmus Hojlund. Hojlund's strike doubled the lead, further exposing Costa’s lackluster performance in goal.
However, Porto refused to bow out quietly. The Dragons pounced on a rebound from United's keeper Andre Onana, allowing Brazilian forward Pepe to score just before the 30-minute mark. Porto continued their resurgence with Samu Omorodion heading in an equalizer seven minutes later as he outplayed United defender Matthijs de Ligt.
The second half saw Porto continue their momentum. Less than five minutes in, Pepe and Omorodion teamed up again, with Pepe’s cut-back finding Omorodion who beat De Ligt to the ball, completing the comeback for a 3-2 lead.
The situation worsened for United when Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the 81st minute, leaving the team in a precarious position. However, Maguire's timely intervention came in the form of a powerful header from an Eriksen corner, leveling the score and preventing a loss.
The draw extends United's winless streak to four games, adding to the mounting pressure on Ten Hag. The Dutch coach faces tough questions about his team's defensive shortcomings and sudden collapse in form.