Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund scored deep into injury time to salvage a point for his side in their 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Sunday afternoon.
Bournemouth took the lead in the first half courtesy of Antoine Semenyo, who capitalised on some pitiful defending from the Red Devils.
Alejandro Garnacho had chances to score but was unable to find the target. In the second half, United barely laid a glove on the Bournemouth defence until Evanilson was shown a red card for a heavy challenge on Noussair Mazraoui.
Evanilson’s sending off gave United a renewed spark, and they dominated the final exchanges of the match at the Vitality Stadium before eventually restoring parity when Hojlund poked in after a low ball into the box.
The goal was just Hojlund’s fourth in the Premier League this season but it will do him a world of confidence, having gone for six games without finding the back of the net. He last scored in the 3-0 victory over Leicester City on March 16, just before the international break.
Hojlund may not have been unstoppable against Bournemouth, but he delivered when it counted. That’s all you can ask for from a striker, especially one like him who is struggling for form.
The Dane embarked on one dribble, which he completed. He managed to find his teammates with 13 of the 18 passes he completed (72% pass accuracy). One of his passes was a key pass.
The 22-year-old won both ground duels that he contested. He was required to contest four challenges in the air but came out on top on just one occasion.
Hojlund made one clearance.
(Stats obtained from Sofascore)
Hopefully, his goal at the Vitality Stadium gives Hojlund the confidence boost he needs to get back to his best, especially with United targeting Europa League glory.
With Chido Obi ineligible for the European competition, all of United’s hopes are pinned on Hojlund, and they need him to deliver.
The Red Devils are back in action on Thursday when they go away to Spain for the first leg of their semi-final tie with Athletic Club.
Feature image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
