Manchester United were once again left ruing their lack of consistency after being held to a 1–1 draw by West Ham United at Old Trafford in the 2025/2026 Premier League season on Friday (December 5, 2025). Despite taking the lead through Diogo Dalot in the 58th minute, United failed to capitalize and allowed Soungoutou Magassa to score an equaliser in the 83rd minute—a moment that summed up another disappointing night for the home side.
The draw not only halted United’s momentum following their win over Crystal Palace but also reinforced a familiar narrative: the Red Devils continue to struggle in protecting leads, especially on their own turf. Old Trafford, once known as a fortress, has repeatedly seen United lose grip on matches they should have won.
Dalot Shines but Ends the Night Disappointed
Dalot, who scored his first-ever Premier League goal at Old Trafford, was among United’s standout performers. His thunderous strike briefly lifted the atmosphere inside the stadium and appeared to put United on course for a much-needed victory. However, the defender admitted that all sense of satisfaction evaporated the moment West Ham found their equaliser.
For Dalot, United’s failure to maintain calm and control after taking the lead was the biggest issue.
“It’s disappointing,” Dalot told Sky Sports.
“When you’re 1–0 up with 30 minutes left, you have to control the game much better—especially here at Old Trafford. We can’t feel that nervous after scoring. We were a bit careless in possession.”
Dalot added that United had worked extremely hard for the opening goal but could not replicate the same discipline afterward.
“We had the game in our hands. That’s the most frustrating part.”
United Lose Their Rhythm and Become Vulnerable to Counterattacks
One of the most glaring problems in United’s performance was their inability to sustain pressure. After Dalot’s goal, instead of calming the tempo and keeping the ball, the team became increasingly chaotic.
Dalot emphasized that this loss of composure was the root of United’s downfall.
“It’s something we have to find a solution for. We fought for 60 minutes to get that goal, and once we scored, we needed to keep doing the same things—control the ball, extend possession, and stay dominant.”
But they did the opposite.
West Ham capitalised on United’s anxiety through sharp counterattacks and dangerous set-piece situations, areas the visitors are known to exploit.
“The play that led to the corner before the goal is exactly the type of situation we need to avoid,” Dalot explained.
“Especially against a team that thrives on transitions.”
The defender suggested that the equaliser came more from United’s own mistakes than from West Ham’s brilliance.
“We already knew they would look for counterattacks and set pieces. Unfortunately, we didn’t protect our lead. In my opinion, it was more our error than something exceptional from West Ham.”
Dalot’s First Old Trafford Goal Feels “Not Special” After Result
Scoring at Old Trafford—particularly in front of the iconic Stretford End—is a dream moment for many players. Dalot acknowledged that it was a proud personal achievement, but the final score diminished the significance entirely.
“It felt amazing—scoring for a club of this size is always special, especially here. But in the end, it doesn’t feel the same. I would trade the goal for three points without thinking twice.”
His comments reflect the growing frustration within the squad, as dropped points continue to occur due to similar patterns of play.
Missed Opportunity in the Race for European Spots
Dalot highlighted how costly the result could be for United’s ambitions this season. With the league entering its decisive winter period, every point becomes crucial.
“It has a huge impact,” Dalot said.
“This is the time of year when you cannot afford to drop points. Otherwise, the gap to the top positions starts to widen.”
United’s target remains clear: secure a place in the top four or at least stay within the top five to ensure a European qualification pathway.
“The table is still tight, but soon teams will start separating. We want to be there—in fourth or fifth place. That’s the goal, and we need to stay within reach.”
Dalot admitted that the draw felt especially painful because United had a real chance to move up the standings.
“Today was a big opportunity. That’s why the disappointment is even bigger.”
United Must Solve Their Biggest Weakness
The match once again highlighted United’s recurring issue: an inability to maintain control when leading. Whether through tactical rigidity, lack of composure, or individual mistakes, the pattern has become too frequent.
If Manchester United want to stay competitive in the Premier League, this flaw must be addressed urgently.
Their upcoming fixtures will now carry even more weight—both for morale and for their pursuit of a top-four finish.
ALSO READ :
