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Manchester United’s aspirations to break into the Premier League’s top five were dashed once again, as they were held to a thrilling 4-4 draw against Bournemouth in a remarkable showdown at Old Trafford.
In a match that was anything but predictable, both teams took turns leading the scoreline, with the balance of power shifting numerous times throughout the encounter. It was Bournemouth’s young talent, Eli Junior Kroupi, who ultimately salvaged a point for the visitors with a late strike, bringing a frenetic game to a dramatic conclusion.
The home side took an early lead when Amad Diallo found the back of the net, capitalizing on a strategic modification by manager Ruben Amorim, which positioned Diallo in a more attacking role.
Dominating the initial moments, Manchester United unleashed a barrage of six shots within the first ten minutes, marking their quickest offensive start in the Premier League since October 2022.
The hosts dominated the opening exchanges, registering six shots in the first 10 minutes, their fastest such start in the league since October 2022.
Bournemouth responded and the game opened up, with United holding a narrow 2-1 advantage at the break.
Second-half momentum swings
United’s lead evaporated within seven minutes of the restart as Evanilson and Marcus Tavernier turned the game on its head for the visitors.
The response was immediate. Bruno Fernandes curled in a free-kick before Matheus Cunha struck just two minutes later to restore United’s advantage in dramatic fashion.
Late sting from Bournemouth
Just as United appeared to be edging towards victory, 19-year-old Kroupi fired home six minutes from time to level the scores once again.
Bournemouth nearly completed the turnaround in stoppage time, but Senne Lammens produced two sharp saves to deny David Brooks and preserve a point for the hosts.
Costly draw for United
The draw leaves United outside the top five, while Bournemouth remain 13th and extend their winless run to seven matches, despite a resilient performance in one of the season’s most dramatic games.