Jacob Neestrup was far from satisfied with FC Copenhagen’s performance in their dramatic 4-3 win over Manchester United (Picture: Beanyman Sports)
FC Copenhagen manager Jacob Neestrup admitted his side were able to inflict a damaging defeat on Manchester United despite producing their ‘weakest’ performance of the season in the Champions League last night.
United’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages suffered a near terminal blowfollowing a dramatic late collapse which saw them concede twice in the closing stages and succumb to a 4-3 defeat.
Two early goals from Rasmus Hojlund looked to have put Erik ten Hag’s fragile side on course for a much needed three points but Marcus Rashford’s controversial red card turned the tide.
Copenhagen were galvanised by the United forward’s dismissal and scored twice shortly before the interval to level the contest.
Despite their numerical advantage, the unfancied Danish side fell behind again with 20 minutes remaining when Bruno Fernandes stepped up to the plate and slammed home a penalty that looked likely to settle the game until a dramatic conclusion left Ten Hag disconsolate and dejected.
Neestrup, however, felt his side were owed a slice of fortune after they left Old Trafford equally dejected a fortnight ago having squandered the chance to earn a draw when Andre Onana saved a spot kick with the last act of the game.
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‘For me as Copenhagen coach it was by far the weakest performance we have had in this group stage so far,’ said Neestrup.
‘If you take the picture today maybe we didn’t deserve three or maybe even one point.
‘But if you take it over four rounds then it’s very, very well deserved Copenhagen is second place. I believe we have truly been the second best team over four games. Not today, but over four games.’
The defeat leaves United bottom of Group A and knowing they will be unable to reach Champions League knockout phase if they lose their penultimate match at Galatasaray at the end of November.
‘This squad is resilient,’ Ten Hag said. ‘The whole season, so many decisions are against us, so many setbacks for injuries.
‘Every time there is a spirit, there is a fight and we will keep going because I am sure and I said to the lads it will turn – on one moment in the season it will turn in our favour.’
MORE : Rio Ferdinand hits out at Manchester United’s lack of leaders after Copenhagen ‘capitulation’
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This sums it up for Erik ten Hag right now.