Video – Three Notable VAR blunders during Rashford’s red card and more United moments missed vs Copenhagen
Manchester United’s Champions League Heartbreak in Copenhagen
Manchester United faced a night of dramatic ups and downs at Parken Stadium as they suffered a heart-wrenching 4-3 defeat to FC Copenhagen.
In a chaotic showdown in the Danish capital, Erik ten Hag’s squad experienced the thrill of being 2-0 and 3-2 ahead.
However, they were unable to hold their lead at the end of each half, mainly due to going down to 10 men following Marcus Rashford’s red card.
Rasmus Hojlund contributed two goals to the Reds’ scoreline, with Bruno Fernandes igniting late hope through a second-half penalty.
Nonetheless, a late surge from the opposition saw Lukas Lerager leveling the score, and a late winner by Roony Bardghji shattered United’s hopes.
This defeat has left Manchester United at the bottom of Group A, with three losses out of four Champions League matches.
They are now faced with the daunting task of saving their campaign with only two games remaining.
Nostalgia and Ambitions
The backdrop for this match was significant for Manchester United, as it marked their first visit to Copenhagen since a 1-0 defeat back in 2006. The home team aimed to harness the spirit of that memorable night 17 years ago. Prior to kick-off, several players from that game were paraded around Parken Stadium, including the goalscorer Marcus Allback.
The home fans displayed a banner featuring that famous win, with the caption ‘Your theatre of nightmares,’ and the traveling Reds responded with an animated ‘What the heck was that?’ The United players seemed motivated by this atmosphere, starting the game with tremendous intensity and securing an early lead just three minutes in.
Ten Hag’s Enthusiasm
The dynamic beginning saw Hojlund delivering the opening goal and Manchester United dominating ball possession. Copenhagen appeared passive, resulting in a somewhat subdued atmosphere.
The players showcased exceptional teamwork, and their comfort on the pitch delighted Ten Hag, who enthusiastically applauded his side from the edge of the dugout during the opening exchanges.
VAR Drama
United’s performance was smooth until Rashford attempted to protect the ball and accidentally landed on Elias Jelert’s ankle. This incident created notable tension within Parken Stadium. However, the atmosphere shifted when a cheer erupted from the away end as the ground’s screen displayed ‘Check over.’
Unfortunately, the joy was short-lived, as referee Donatas Rumsas signaled for an on-field review after a brief check, ultimately leading to Rashford’s red card. This sequence of events quickly clarified any initial confusion.
Maguire’s Passion
Copenhagen seized the opportunity, scoring two quick goals after Rashford’s red card. Despite starting the second half with ten men and a 2-2 scoreline, Ten Hag’s squad continued to assert their dominance, remaining the superior side.
With just over 20 minutes left, Harry Maguire believed his team should have been awarded a penalty when he headed the ball onto a Copenhagen player’s arm. Maguire’s conviction was evident when he picked up the ball before the VAR check had even commenced.
The penalty was granted and expertly converted by Fernandes, who seemed poised to secure a match-winning status once more.
A Familiar Chant
The match-winner title, however, went to Copenhagen’s 17-year-old substitute, Bardghji. His entry added an electrifying dynamic, and he sent a volley past Andre Onana to ignite wild celebrations among the home fans.
A familiar chant echoed through the stadium, with Copenhagen supporters fervently chanting ‘Roony! Roony! Roony!’ The irony of the situation was unmistakable, even if it stung painfully for United fans.
