Manchester United managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth in the English Premier League, but it wasn’t a convincing performance. They needed two penalty decisions to even the score, but this result doesn’t improve their chances of making it to the Champions League next season.
Bournemouth were playing better for most of the match, and United were trailing 2-1 when Adam Smith accidentally blocked a shot with his arm inside the penalty area.
The referee awarded a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted, earning United a crucial point. However, the performance of the team under Erik ten Hag’s management continues to face scrutiny.
Although the referee initially awarded Bournemouth a penalty in injury time, VAR determined that the foul occurred just outside the box. This decision spared United from a potential defeat.
While United still has a slight possibility of qualifying for the Champions League, they couldn’t capitalize fully on Tottenham’s loss earlier in the day. With ten points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa and Tottenham, they have a challenging path ahead with only six matches remaining.
The new Champions League format for next season offers hope, as it allows five teams from the Premier League to qualify.
Dominic Solanke put Bournemouth ahead after shaking off Kambwala, breaking into the area, and calmly slotting a low shot past André Onana.
Fernandes leveled the score by volleying in his second attempt from close range. However, Bournemouth quickly regained the lead when Justin Kluivert effortlessly penetrated the United defense and beat Onana at his near post.
Milos Kerkez missed a golden opportunity to make it 3-1 before halftime by heading against the crossbar. United then benefitted from two penalty decisions in the second half.
Bournemouth, sitting in 12th place, were safe from relegation but appeared unlikely to secure European qualification.
