Erik ten Hag blames referee for Champions League defeat to Copenhagen

Erik ten Hag blames referee for Champions League defeat to Copenhagen

Faruq Ibrahim 23:45 - 08.11.2023

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag criticises the officiating the his team's 4-3 defeat to Copenhagen in the Champions League.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has blamed the officiating on the day for his team’s defeat to Copenhagen.

The Danish side beat the Red Devils 4-3 at the Parken Stadium to send the three-time UCL winners to the bottom of the group, and Ten Hag faults the officiating for this result.

The match in brief

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Rasmus Hojlund gave Manchester United an early start with goals in the third and 28th minutes, but, capitalising on Rashford's sending-off in the 42nd minute, Copenhagen got a quick-fire double just before half-time to restore parity.

Bruno Fernandes thought he won it for United against all odds from the penalty spot in the 69th minute, but another late double from the hosts ensured Manchester United went back home with nothing and were nailed to the bottom of the group.

What Erik ten Hag said

The Manchester United manager believes his team had the upper hand in the game before Rashford was sent off, which he believes was a harsh decision. He also claims that Copenhagen were given two goals that should not have stood.

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag is under pressure || Credit: Imago
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag is under pressure || Credit: Imago
Erik ten Hag on the sidelines during the Manchester Derby || Image credit: Imago
Erik ten Hag on the sidelines during the Manchester Derby || Image credit: Imago

 "Do you have one hour? I think first we played very good until the red card. The red card changed everything. Then it becomes a different game,” he said, per the BBC.

"We concede two goals that shouldn't count. It is disappointing. Not only tonight. We have to deal with many decisions against us in other games. That's how it is. But the season is long. At one point it will turn in our favour.

"It is harsh decision. He was going for the ball. The review was over, then he went up to the screen. I think the referee was not sure. After half-time it was better but the two goals should not count. The first is offside, there is a player in front of Onana. The second, what can you do about that?”

Meanwhile, Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has revealed his best teammate during his time at Old Trafford.

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