Man United begin Europa campaign with frustrating draw vs Twente as Sam Lammer’s equalizer overcame Eriksen’s opener.
Man United start with a draw against Dutch side Twente despite taking the lead in the first half.
Ahead of the game, United manager Erik ten Hag spoke about the love and affection he still has for the team he started his career with. And by the end of it all it seemed it was right as he gifted them a point.
As the game against Palace, the Red Devils began the game brightly. When they click, it brings about a cacophony of intricacy along with the defense staying compact. This was the pattern of the half.
United maintained their strong on-ball performance from Saturday’s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which included a possession-heavy style that some critics of Ten Hag claim is beyond his ability to manage.
Again, lining up as United’s central striker, Zirkzee’s style of play is more like the skilful work of a playmaker. This was demonstrated by the no-look backheel that confused Twente’s defence and allowed Rashford to get in behind. Although the latter’s cross was scuffed, a brilliant United onslaught continued.
Rashford was a force, as demonstrated by another run along the left and ball to Zirkzee. Later, a cheeky nutmeg of Ricky van Wolfswinkel garnered “oohs” from the enthusiastic supporters. Rashford was the beneficiary of Alejandro Garnacho dropping to the bench. He was also the first to congratulate Eriksen on the opening goal, a bullet of a finish that rocketed into the left corner, and part of a three-man push that included Zirkzee and Fernandes whenever Unnerstall tried to start from the back.
The opportunity came from a reverse ball played by the ever-shrewd Fernandes into Dalot, who was roving the area when Eriksen took control and finished brilliantly.
Could Ten Hag’s men continue like this? Despite a strong second-half showing in which Rashford’s footwork confused two Twente players and sent him knifing towards goal before Joseph Oosting’s team rallied, the answer would be negative.
After defending two corners, United raced in to get a second goal to calm nerves after a tense last thirty minutes. With a corner at his disposal, Eriksen attempted to make it, but Twente resisted.
Next, happiness for the Dutch. Van Rooij skilfully manoeuvred 40 yards ahead, sidestepping Rashford, Fernandes, Martínez, and Maguire, who awkwardly dove in. After Ugarte tackled Eriksen, the Dane hesitated to receive the ball. This saw Lammers drag him into United’s territory and beat Onana to the right.
Despite threats from Zirkzee, Mainoo, and Garnacho, the Twente supporters celebrated as United ended with a second straight draw.