Galatasaray 3:3 Manchester United
In the 11th minute, when Alejandro Garnacho netted a brilliant goal, the gallery of the Ali Sami Yen Stadium fell momentarily silent in awe. Gesturing to the subdued gallery while celebrating his goal, Garnacho indicated that despite the goal, Galatasaray couldn’t silence Manchester United entirely.
Despite twice leading 2-0 and then 3-1, Manchester United lost control of the game, culminating in goalkeeper Andre Onana’s mistake leading to a disappointing 3-3 draw till the end. The draw at Galatasaray’s ground has left United stranded at the brink.
With 5 matches played, United has 4 points while Galatasaray has 5 in the group stage, where Bayern Munich has already secured progression.
Even after leading twice, United couldn’t leave the field with a win due to Onana’s mistake and Hakim Ziyech’s brilliance. Coming from Chelsea, Moroccan winger Hakimi ignited the field before United took a 2-0 lead in the 11th minute through Garnacho. His assist led to Bruno Fernandes scoring in the 18th minute.
Despite being ahead by two goals within 20 minutes, Galatasaray didn’t let United enjoy peace for long. Hakim Ziyech’s brilliant free-kick from nearly 25 yards found its way into United’s net in the 28th minute. Before that, a goal by McKtomnay made it 3-1 for United in the 55th minute.
Just as the final whistle approached, Galatasaray found another free-kick opportunity in a similar position. Ziyech took the shot again, but this time, Onana made a reverse of his control, sending the ball into his net.
After reducing the deficit, Galatasaray intensified their attacks. In the 71st minute, taking advantage of a powerful shot from the right, Nagatomo brought the score to 3-3 swiftly. This goal left Onana stunned without much else to do.
In the closing stages, United also made a few good attempts. Among them, in the 84th minute, Bruno Fernandes almost scored, hitting the post, leaving his team feeling disheartened.
