Have Manchester United’s errors given Sevilla the upper hand in their Europa League tie?

Manchester United lost a huge chance to take an advantage into the second leg of their Europa League quarter final tie against Sevilla with their 2-2 draw. The hosts were leading courtesy of a brace from Marcel Sabitzer, but found themselves on level terms at full time with two late own goals. 

Tyrell Malacia conceded the first, while the second came off of Harry Maguire‘s head to squander the two-goal advantage that the team had for most of the game. 

Did Manchester United give Sevilla a lifeline in the Europa League? 

The absence of Marcus Rashford will make things even more difficult for the club, since he was their best attacker in 2023. But, Erik Ten Hag will have the services of Anthony Martial, and possibly Christian Eriksen as well. 

Martial looked sharp in the first leg and provided the assist for Sabitzer’s second goal. However, he has been inconsistent during his time with the club and has only just returned from injury. Moreover, Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane could also miss the game which would add further pressure. 

Bruno Fernandes will also miss the game through suspension, and it only adds to the challenges that Erik Ten Hag will have to try and overcome.

Had they maintained their advantage, it could have been a very different story even with the injuries. But now, it just seems that much more difficult for the Premier League club. They are still the favourites in the tie considering how poorly Sevilla have performed this season, but the difference seems much slimmer now.

However, they are the record champions of the Europa League and could find a way to turn things around at home.