United Held to Dramatic Draw by Galatasaray in Champions League

Photocredit: Sky Sports

In a pulsating Champions League encounter, Manchester United were held to a dramatic 3-3 draw by Galatasaray at the Türk Telekom Stadium on Wednesday night. The Red Devils, who needed a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive, were twice pegged back to ensure a share of the spoils.

The first half was a lively affair with both teams creating chances. United took the lead early on through a well-taken strike from Alejandro Garnacho. Bruno Fernandes doubled the lead for the Red Devils within 20 minutes with a fantastic right-footed finish. Galatasaray responded in the 29th minute with a free-kick by Hakim Ziyech from about 25 yards from goal. First half ended 2-1 in favour of Manchester United.

The second half continued in the same vein, with both teams going on the attack. United looked to have secured a vital victory when Scot McTominay slides in a fine finish from Wan-Bissaka's low cross towards goal in the 55th minute to put the visitors ahead on 3-1. However, Galatasaray were not to be denied and  snatched a dramatic equalizer in the dying moments through a sensational strike from Hakim Ziyech's free-kick at 62nd minute. Many will fault United's goalkeeper, Onana, for a terrible save into his own net. Ziyech's second was a replica of the first-half goal. The home side equalized when Kerem Aktürkoğlu scored a brilliant goal. The substitute was assisted by Ziyech who passed the ball from right-wing. Onana was once again left stranded and it was 3-3 in the thrilling Group A game.

A Point Gained or Two Points Lost?

The draw leaves United in a precarious position in Group A. They are currently in the bottom place, a points behind second and third-placed Copenhagen and Galatasaray and nine points adrift of leaders Bayern Munich. With just one game left to play, United's hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages now hang in the balance.

Key Moments

• 11th minute: Galatasaray take the lead through Alejandro Garnacho
• 18th minute: Bruno Fernandes doubles the lead for United
• 29th minute: Hakim Ziyech put Galatasaray back in into the game with a free-kick
• 55th minute: Scot McTominay doubles the lead again for United
• 62nd minute: Hakim Ziyech scored another free-kick to once again give the home team momentum in a dramatic fashion
• 71th minute: Kerem Aktürkoğlu snatches an equalizer for Galatasaray

What Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager, said

Speaking with TNT Sports, United's manager, Eric ten Hag said: "We should have taken three points, it’s clear, but also in other games, home against Galatasaray, away at Copenhagen. I compliment the team and in the same moment I criticise them, and myself as we are not defending good enough. We were leading 3-1 and you can't afford such mistakes."

"I am pleased at how dynamic and brave the team was. We created so many chances, especially at the end. Big chances. We played good football.

"I blame myself if we go out. Know that we are in a project and we are improving. We are in the right direction. I know where we have to go, what steps to take and I’m sure we will be successful in the long term but if you want to stay in the Champions League you need to win these games."