Aberdeen snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw against Dundee United on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Pittodrie Stadium, overcoming a two-goal deficit thanks to the heroics of Kevin Nisbet.
The Scotland striker scored both of Aberdeen's goals, including one during stoppage time, ensuring the Dons salvaged a point against the Tangerines. Initially, it seemed Dundee United had the upper hand, with Vicko Sevelj and Sam Dalby finding the net, putting them comfortably 2-0 up at halftime.
The visitors took control early, with Sevelj breaking the deadlock by nodding the ball past Aberdeen's keeper after being unmarked at the back post. This lead was doubled on the stroke of halftime when Dalby managed to glance home a header during added time, leaving Aberdeen trailing as the half concluded.
Despite having the lion's share of possession and creating several chances, Aberdeen headed to the dressing room without any goals. The Dons were lacking the finishing touch, and at one point, they narrowly avoided going behind even more when Sevelj's shot was deflected by substitute Emmanuel Adegboyega, who was later ruled offside.
The second half saw Aberdeen come out with renewed vigor. Nisbet played a pivotal role, firing home after his side dominated the play. Pape Habib Gueye also had opportunities, including one chance from ten yards out which he squandered.
Meanwhile, Dundee United tried to maintain their advantage, with Kristijan Trapanovski coming close with his effort. Despite exerting pressure, the Tangerines, coached by Jim Goodwin, could not put away the match and instead watched as Nisbet's quality shone through. He slotted his second of the match beautifully to secure the equalizer, finding the net for the fourth time in five games, much to the relief of the home crowd.
Following the match, Goodwin expressed his frustration. "I can’t have too many complaints about the scoreline, Aberdeen were excellent in the second half and you see the strength they have,” he remarked. He added, “A point away from home is always good, but losing the equalizer at the 91st minute makes it feel more like defeat.” Goodwin acknowledged the toll of fatigue on his players, noting, “Our high press worked well initially, but we looked like we ran out of energy.”
Dundee United saw themselves drop to fifth place, one point behind Aberdeen, as the tense competition for European spots heated up with Hibernian's recent victory over Hearts, pushing them above both teams. Goodwin's squad had only recently faced various challenges, including injuries and having played three games within the week.
Aberdeen's resilience was particularly notable as they continue to fight for their position at the top. Manager Jimmy Thelin praised Nisbet's performance and commitment during the pivotal second half. “He’s been struggling at times, but his ability to find the net at key moments is invaluable,” Thelin commented.
The match exemplified the competitive nature of the league, with all three teams—Aberdeen, Dundee United, and Hibs—fighting hard for the coveted European qualifications. Just two points separate them, making every match count as the season progresses. “It’s going to be tough,” Goodwin concluded, hinting at the upcoming matches and the challenges his squad faces moving forward.
With the draw, Aberdeen missed out on moving higher up the table but showcased their fighting spirit—something they will build on as they prepare for their next encounters. Meanwhile, Dundee United must regroup quickly to maintain their momentum and respond to the physical and strategic challenges they're currently facing.
Both teams look forward to their next fixtures, with Aberdeen and Dundee United battling to establish dominance and secure their spots for European football next season.