Manchester United and Sevilla Play Out Thrilling 2-2 Draw

Manchester United and Sevilla faced off in a highly anticipated Europa League quarter final first leg match at Old Trafford on Thursday night. The stage was set for an intense battle between two European heavyweights, and the match certainly did not disappoint. It was Manchester United who drew first blood, as they took an early lead in the 14th minute. Marcel Sabitzer, who has been in fine form for United in recent games, found the back of the net with a well-placed shot. The goal was a result of a well-constructed attack that was built from the back, and Sabitzer made no mistake to put his team ahead 1-0.

Marcel Sabitzer

The home team continued to press forward, and Sabitzer struck again in the 21st minute to double Manchester United's lead. This time, it was a brilliant through ball from Anthony Martial that found Sabitzer in the box, and the Austrian midfielder calmly finished to make it 2-0. The goal sent the Old Trafford faithful into a frenzy, and it looked like Manchester United was in control of the game.

Comeback

However, Sevilla refused to back down and mounted a comeback in the second half. In the 84th minute, they pulled one back with an own goal from Tyrell Malacia. The Dutch defender inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous cross from Sevilla's Ocampos, reducing the deficit to 2-1. As the clock ticked down, the tension in the stadium was palpable. In injury time, Sevilla capitalized on a defensive mistake from Manchester United, and Youssef En-Nesyri found the back of the net to equalize at 2-2. The goal came from a header that deflected off the head of Maguire and went into the net, sealing a dramatic draw for Sevilla.

Interesting battle incoming

The final whistle blew, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw. It was a disappointing result for Manchester United, who had been in control for most of the game but were undone by two own goals. The draw means that the tie is finely poised heading into the second leg, which will be played at Sevilla's home ground. Both teams will now regroup and prepare for the second leg, which promises to be another thrilling encounter. Manchester United will need to rectify their defensive errors and be more clinical in front of goal, while Sevilla will take confidence from their late comeback and look to capitalize on their home advantage. It will be very hard for Man United to get into the Europa League final.