Manchester United surrendered a valuable lead at Old Trafford on Thursday night, drawing 1-1 with struggling West Ham after a late strike from Soungoutou Magassa denied them all three points.
Diogo Dalot opened the scoring shortly before the hour mark, finishing from close range in the 58th minute after United finally converted one of several half-chances they had created earlier in the match. Despite enjoying the better attacking momentum — including a higher expected-goals (xG) tally, more shots, and nearly two-thirds of possession — United failed to extend their advantage.
West Ham grew into the game in the final stages and were rewarded in the 83rd minute when Magassa slid home his first goal for the club, stunning the home crowd and earning his side a hard-fought point. The performance capped a standout evening for the young French midfielder, who was later named man of the match.
United pushed forward desperately in added time, with captain Bruno Fernandes firing over from close range after Alphonse Areola parried an effort into his path — but the late chance went begging.
The dropped points sparked audible frustration among the Old Trafford crowd, with scattered boos heard at full time. The result leaves United eighth in the Premier League, missing a chance to break into the top five. West Ham, meanwhile, remain 18th but showed renewed resilience under Nuno Espírito Santo, who has now overseen several comeback draws since taking charge.
West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen praised his side’s mentality, saying they “deserved a point” and showed the reaction demanded after their previous defeat. Substitute Andy Irving also made an immediate impact, delivering the corner that led to Magassa’s equaliser.
For United, the night brought mixed performances across the pitch. Aaron Wan-Bissaka impressed but was fortunate to avoid a second yellow card, while young defender Ayden Heaven endured a difficult debut and was substituted at halftime. New signing Matheus Cunha showed signs of promise with multiple progressive carries and attacking involvements.
Ultimately, it was another night of frustration for Ruben Amorim’s side, who continue to struggle to close out matches at Old Trafford — a pattern that has cost them vital points throughout the season.
