De Ligt’s late header saves United in stoppage-time thriller against Spurs

November 10, 2025 Oliver Obel

What began as a controlled, cagey contest erupted into late drama. For much of the afternoon, Bryan Mbeumo’s first-half header looked set to give United the win.

The forward punished Tottenham’s defensive lapse in the 32nd minute, nodding in Amad Diallo’s cross for his fifth Premier League goal against Spurs — his joint-most against any side, according to Opta.

Tottenham struggled to respond before halftime, failing to record a single shot on target for the second time at home this season, Opta reported. With Randal Kolo Muani still sidelined and Richarlison short of form, the hosts lacked a cutting edge.

Spurs show life after the break

After the interval, Spurs injected more energy into their play. Cristian Romero’s close-range header forced Senne Lammens into a smart save, while João Palhinha’s volley tested the United goalkeeper again. Yet their most dangerous moments came from set pieces rather than open play, underlining their creative struggles.

Brennan Johnson briefly thought he had equalised midway through the second half, but the flag went up immediately for offside — a moment that summed up Tottenham’s frustration in front of goal.

Late drama in stoppage time

The closing minutes brought a stunning sequence. Substitute Mathys Tel spun inside the box and fired United level, only for Richarlison to restore Spurs’ lead with a glancing header in stoppage time. The home side appeared set for victory.

Then, in the sixth added minute, De Ligt met a corner with a powerful header to make it 2–2 — sparking wild celebrations from United’s travelling supporters. Amorim pumped his fists on the touchline as his side rescued a result that seemed lost moments earlier.

Spurs’ home troubles continue

According to Opta, Tottenham are now unbeaten in six league matches against United (W3 D3), equalling their longest top-flight streak since 1921. However, it was also the first time they have led a Premier League game in the 90th minute and failed to win.

Mbeumo’s strike took his tally to 25 league goals since the start of last season, while Richarlison’s late effort continued his habit of scoring at the death — four of his eight league goals in 2025 have come in the final ten minutes.

Tottenham remain without a win in five home league fixtures this season. Manager Ange Postecoglou will be under pressure to reignite his side’s attacking spark as they prepare for a challenging winter schedule.

United’s growing resilience

For Manchester United, the draw extended their unbeaten Premier League run to five matches — their longest since early 2024. More importantly, Amorim’s men showed composure under pressure, with his late substitutions, including Tel, changing the game’s momentum.

With a packed fixture list ahead, United’s growing resilience under Amorim could prove key as they continue to rebuild confidence and identity.

Sources: Opta, BBC Sport, Sky Sports, The Guardian