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Christian Eriksen’s night encapsulated the highs and lows for Manchester United as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Twente in their Europa League opener. The Danish midfielder put United ahead in the first half with a clinical strike but was later at fault for Twente’s equalizer after being caught in possession by Sam Lammers.
Eriksen’s goal came after a deflected pass from Diogo Dalot fell to him inside the box. His powerful shot found the far corner, giving United a deserved lead. However, against a determined Twente side, Eriksen’s mistake allowed Lammers to steal the ball and fire a fierce effort past Andre Onana, leveling the score.
Despite late pressure from United, including a fine save from Twente goalkeeper Lars Unnerstall to deny Joshua Zirkzee, they were unable to find a winner. Bruno Fernandes and substitute Kobbie Mainoo also came close, but the Red Devils were left frustrated at Old Trafford.
Manager Erik ten Hag, facing his boyhood club, saw his side miss several chances to seal the win. The result leaves United with work to do in a tricky group, with a visit to Porto looming on October 3.
Rashford Tries to Impress Interim England Boss
Marcus Rashford, eager to catch the eye of interim England manager Lee Carsley, who watched from the directors’ box, had a lively performance. The forward dazzled the crowd with skillful footwork and a 60-yard run that set up a chance for Zirkzee, though the Dutch striker failed to capitalize. Despite Rashford’s efforts, his final ball often lacked precision, and he was substituted 11 minutes from time to applause from the home fans.
Eriksen’s Key Role and Costly Error
Eriksen, starting his fourth consecutive game since United’s loss to Liverpool, had a mixed evening. His composed finish put United in control, but his costly error allowed Twente’s equalizer after a surging run by Bart van Rooij went unchecked. Eriksen was dispossessed by Lammers just outside the United box, leading to the goal that denied United the win.
As United navigate a congested schedule, Ten Hag will hope to see improvements from his side, who are unbeaten in four games but have drawn their last two.
