Manchester United’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season suffered another setback on Saturday, as Bruno Fernandes’ double could only rescue a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth.
The Cherries led twice via Dominic Solanke and Justin Kluivert, and Bournemouth were denied a late winner when a controversial VAR review overruled the decision to award the home side a penalty.
A point puts United 10 points behind Aston Villa and Tottenham in the race for a top-four finish with six games remaining.
The Red Devils have won just one of their previous seven Premier League games, casting doubt on Erik ten Hag’s future as United manager next season.
Once again, United’s defensive flaws were exploited, as Bournemouth narrowly missed out on a famous double after beating 3-0 at Old Trafford earlier this season.
Willy Kambwala, a French adolescent, held his spot at centre defender despite injuries to Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof.
However, Kambwala had a moment to forget for the opening goal, as his slip allowed Solanke to select his location and score his 19th goal of the season.
United had rarely threatened as an attacking force before drawing level against the flow of play on 31 minutes.
Alejandro Garnacho’s deflected cross came perfectly into the path of Fernandes, who volleyed into the roof of the net.
Bournemouth were back in front inside five minutes, with Kluivert taking advantage of the United defence’s ample space inside the box to drill low past Andre Onana.
Ten Hag’s position as United manager becomes increasingly uncertain with each passing week and dismal performance.
However, the Dutchman was rewarded with a brave substitution at halftime, replacing Garnacho with Amad Diallo.
The Ivorian winger sprang to prominence after scoring an extra-time winner against Liverpool in last month’s thrilling FA Cup quarter-final.
And he helped the visitors get a point when Adam Smith handled his deflected shot inside the box.
Fernandes went up to convert the following penalty past Neto.
Bournemouth felt they had a spot kick deep into stoppage time when Kambwala stopped Ryan Christie’s surge into the box.
After a penalty was initially granted, VAR intervened, stating that the incident occurred just beyond the box.
A point leaves Bournemouth in 12th place, eight points behind United in the European standings.