Late drama as Ajer’s equaliser thwarts Manchester United’s Champions League aspirations
LONDON: In a thrilling showdown between Brentford and Manchester United, Kristoffer Ajer emerged as the hero with a 99th-minute equaliser, securing a crucial point for the Bees and dashing United’s hopes of a Champions League qualification lifeline. The Premier League clash ended in a 1-1 draw on Saturday, leaving both teams with contrasting emotions.
The drama unfolded in the dying moments of the match when substitute Mason Mount seemed to have sealed an improbable victory for United with a goal in the 96th minute, much to the disbelief of Brentford who had dominated proceedings for much of the game. However, their hopes were swiftly dashed as Ajer seized the opportunity, smashing home Ivan Toney’s cutback from close range just three minutes later.
The result sees Brentford maintaining their position in 15th place, providing them with a crucial buffer of five points above the relegation zone. Meanwhile, for Manchester United, the draw dealt a significant blow to their aspirations of securing a spot in next season’s Champions League. Remaining in sixth place, they now find themselves trailing 11 points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa and eight points behind Tottenham Hotspur in fifth.
With only a handful of matches remaining in the season, the setback for Manchester United intensifies the pressure on their quest for European football next season.
