Defender Matthijs de Ligt emerged as Manchester United’s savior with a 96th-minute header that snatched an important point in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham. Yet, the happiness was not complete as the Dutch player still appeared frustrated after the game ended.
The Premier League match was full of drama as Tottenham seemed certain to win. After Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring, Mathys Tel and Richarlison turned the game around to lead 2-1, while Man Utd was down to 10 men due to Benjamin Sesko’s injury. In the final stoppage time, even goalkeeper Senne Lammens pushed forward for the last corner, and it was De Ligt who rose highest to head the ball into the net, securing a point for the visitors.
Despite scoring the precious equalizer, De Ligt was not fully satisfied with his performance. He expressed frustration about Tottenham’s opening goal, where his attempt to block the ball inadvertently deflected it into the net. Speaking to TNT Sports, the 26-year-old defender said:
“Fortunately, we managed to get a point, but I believe the team deserved more based on how we played. In the second half, we were a bit tired and couldn’t escape their pressing as well as before. Their first goal was quite lucky; I tried to block the ball but it deflected into the net, which is hard to accept. I’m somewhat disappointed about that, but proud that the whole team fought until the last minute to earn a point at a tough venue.”
De Ligt also highlighted Man Utd’s progress compared to last season: “Last year, we lost 0-1 to Nottingham Forest and Tottenham. But now you can see the fighting spirit has returned, we have the ‘fire in our belly’ to recover results. The season is long, and getting draws like this is more important than losing.”
The Dutch star also praised his team’s pace and consistency: “We are very dangerous, have speed up front, and know how to exploit our strengths. Tottenham left many gaps behind their defense, and we created several chances. I think Man Utd deserved more than just one point.”
Coach Ruben Amorim also shared his feelings after the match. Although disappointed to drop the win, he praised his players’ never-give-up attitude: “During the game, I clearly felt the three points were within reach. But with what happened, Maguire and Casemiro injured, and conceding two goals, we still stood up and equalized. When you can’t win, the important thing is not to lose. Once again, the players demonstrated that resilience.”
This draw helps Man Utd maintain their unbeaten streak in the Premier League, though at the cost of multiple injuries. For De Ligt, the late goal was a well-deserved reward for relentless effort but also a reminder that the “Red Devils” still have much work to do if they want to return to the top of the table.