Manchester United’s Demise Against Copenhagen: The Rashford Red Card Debate
Manchester United appeared to be in control and leading comfortably against Copenhagen until one pivotal moment altered the course of the game.
A red card shown to Marcus Rashford turned the tide dramatically, transforming United’s 2-0 lead into a 2-2 stalemate, eventually leading to their disheartening 4-3 defeat.
Opinions were sharply divided on whether Rashford deserved the red card. In his attempt to shield the ball from opposing full-back Elias Jelert just outside his own box, Rashford inadvertently placed his boot directly onto Jelert’s leg.
VAR intervened, sending the decision for a review by the referee, who subsequently issued a red card to the Manchester United forward.
Elias Jelert’s Perspective on Marcus Rashford’s Red Card Marcus Rashford may not have intended to harm his opponent, but his intentions were inconsequential in the eyes of the referee.
Elias Jelert, the recipient of Rashford’s challenge, played the entire 90 minutes and believed that the red card was justified.
In his comments to Bold.dk, Jelert stated: “I can feel that it is high, but no free kick is awarded to begin with. I don’t think he’s after me. He tries to shield the ball and then his foot ends up quite high. There I could feel that it landed well. So yes, it was enough for a red card.”
He also mentioned that he continued to feel the effects of the challenge after the game, noting, “It hurts a little more now that it has become cold than when you run around with adrenaline.”
Manchester United’s Discontent with Marcus Rashford’s Red Card Marcus Rashford appeared baffled when the decision went against him, clearly caught off guard and unimpressed.
Manager Erik ten Hag didn’t mince words after the match, expressing his frustration by stating, “We played very well until the red card. The red card changed everything. Then it becomes a different game.”
The game’s outcome saw United drop to the bottom of the Champions League group, despite briefly ascending to the second spot. However, their elevated position was short-lived.