UEFA Europa League: Sam Lammers surprises a lackluster Manchester United as FC Twente manages to earn a draw at Old Trafford.
**FC Twente Stun Manchester United in Europa League Opener at Old Trafford**
In a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford, FC Twente celebrated a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manchester United in their UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase opener on September 25, 2024. The match saw Christian Eriksen take centre stage, but not without a twist of fate that left the home fans frustrated.
The Danish midfielder initially shone brightly, giving Erik ten Hag’s side a 1-0 lead with a stunning first-time strike in the 35th minute. Eriksen’s effort, rifled into the far corner after a challenge on Diogo Dalot, sent the home crowd into raptures and seemed to set the stage for a comfortable evening for the Red Devils.
However, FC Twente, well-organised and dangerous on the counter, had other ideas. The turning point came in the 68th minute when Sam Lammers capitalised on a mistake from Eriksen, dispossessing him before darting into the area and beating Andre Onana at his near post. The equaliser sent shockwaves through Old Trafford, as the Dutch side celebrated a famous point.
Despite late efforts from Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire to snatch a winner, United were unable to break down a resolute Twente defence, leaving them to rue missed opportunities. The draw marks a disappointing start to their Europa League campaign, especially given the high expectations surrounding the club this season.
**A Lacklustre Second Half Costs United**
As one of the pre-tournament favourites, Manchester United’s performance raised eyebrows, particularly in the second half, where they appeared lacklustre and lacking in urgency. TNT Sports pundits Karen Carney and Owen Hargreaves had highlighted United’s struggle to find a killer instinct this season, and it was evident as they failed to build on their first-half lead.
This result will undoubtedly dampen the momentum United had hoped to carry into their upcoming Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. While they remain unbeaten since the international break, this draw serves as a stark reminder of the challenges they face as they seek to establish their credentials this season.
**Player of the Match: Lars Unnerstall**
For FC Twente, goalkeeper Lars Unnerstall was the standout performer, earning a well-deserved 9/10 for his heroics between the sticks. His series of crucial saves, including two exceptional stops in each half, were instrumental in securing a memorable result for the visitors.
**Player Ratings**
*Manchester United:*
Onana 6, Mazraoui 6, Maguire 7, Martinez 7, Dalot 7, Ugarte 6, Eriksen 7, Diallo 7, Fernandes 7, Rashford 7, Zirkzee 6.
Subs: Garnacho 6, Mainoo n/a, Mount n/a, Hojlund n/a.
*FC Twente:*
Unnerstall 9, Salah-Eddine 8, Bruns 8, Hilgers 8, van Rooij 8, Vlap 7, Regeer 7, van Bergen 7, Steijn 7, van Wolfsinkel 7, Lammers 7.
Subs: Kjolo 7, Rots 7, Lagerbielke n/a, Ltaief n/a, Besselink n/a.
**Match Highlights**
– **08’ – CHANCE!** The hosts are caught being too casual on the far right, and Twente almost capitalise. Sam Lammers opens his body and slides a side-footer inches past the far post.
– **26’ – CHANCE!** Lars Unnerstall pulls off a marvellous reaction stop, flinging his arm up to deny Lisandro Martinez’s heavily deflected header.
– **35’ – GOAL!** – Man United 1-0 FC Twente: Eriksen rifles a sensational first-time strike into the far corner after Dalot is challenged on the left side of the area.
– **68’ – GOAL!** – Man United 1-1 FC Twente: Lammers pinches the ball off Eriksen and surges into the area, beating Onana at his near post to stun Old Trafford.
As the dust settles on this encounter, Manchester United will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for a crucial match against Tottenham, while FC Twente will take great confidence from their performance in Manchester.