NEW DELHI: Manchester United found themselves held to a gripping 1-1 draw by Brentford after a late equalizer from Kristoffer Ajer dashed their hopes of securing a crucial victory for Champions League qualification next season.
The match witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions as substitute Mason Mount seemed to have sealed an unlikely victory for United with a 96th-minute goal, following a dominant display from Brentford throughout the game.
However, Ajer's swift response, smashing home Ivan Toney's cut-back just three minutes later, left United stunned and denied them the win they desperately sought.
Reflecting on the result, United's disappointed manager, Erik ten Hag, conceded that his side did not deserve to win, acknowledging Brentford's superiority on the field. Despite the setback, he remained optimistic about their chances of Champions League qualification, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise.
"We didn't deserve to win but if you are winning you have to take this," lamented Ten Hag, highlighting the missed opportunity for his team to secure a late victory.
Meanwhile, Brentford's manager, Thomas Frank, expressed his disbelief at the turn of events, admitting that he was on the verge of losing faith before Ajer's crucial equalizer salvaged a point for his side. He commended his players for their resilience and ability to bounce back after seemingly conceding a late defeat.
"When you are this dominant and you then concede a late goal and then have the ability to come back, I don't know how to explain that, that's just incredible," remarked Frank, highlighting the remarkable character displayed by his team.
The match served as a testament to the unpredictable nature of football and the resilience of underdog teams like Brentford, who refused to back down despite the odds stacked against them.
(With inputs from Reuters)
