North London – A dramatic encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium saw Manchester United snatch a 2-2 draw against Tottenham, thanks to a late header from Matthijs de Ligt. The match, part of the Premier League's weekend fixtures before the international break, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams scoring stoppage-time goals.
The game began with a relatively flat first half, but Manchester United broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. Bryan Mbeumo, nodding in a cross from Amad Diallo at the far post after Tottenham failed to clear their lines, scored the first shot on target. The goal gave United a crucial lead, and they maintained it into the halftime break. Tottenham's lackluster performance in the first half was met with boos from their home fans.
In the second half, Tottenham showed renewed vigor, spurred on by the introduction of substitutes Wilson Odobert and Destiny Udogie, who created havoc down the left flank. However, it wasn't until the 84th minute that their efforts paid off when Mathys Tel equalized, injecting fresh life into the match.
The drama escalated in stoppage time. In the 91st minute, Richarlison appeared to have sealed a comeback victory for Tottenham, deflecting Odobert's shot into the bottom corner. The home crowd erupted in celebration, believing their team had secured all three points.
However, Manchester United wasn't ready to concede. In the 96th minute, deep into added time, Bruno Fernandes swung in a corner from the left. De Ligt rose highest at the far post, meeting the delivery with a firm header that crossed the line before Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario could claw it away. The late equalizer rescued a point for United and extended their unbeaten run to five games.
The 2-2 draw leaves both teams with 18 points in the Premier League standings. Tottenham is third, while Manchester United sits seventh based on goal difference.
Both teams displayed vulnerabilities despite the thrilling draw. Tottenham's sluggish first half and Manchester United's late defensive lapses after injuries to key players like Casemiro, Mazraoui, and Maguire highlighted their respective challenges.
Looking ahead, Tottenham faces a North London derby against Arsenal, while Manchester United will host Everton.
