By TheDailyNewsHub Reporter
Manchester United staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat AS Roma 3–2 at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, November 3, ending a nine-game winless run and easing the pressure on manager Michael Carrick.
Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha scored twice late in the match after Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, overturning Roma’s two-goal advantage and securing a much-needed victory for the English club in the UEFA Champions League.
Roma took control early, with Matías Soulé opening the scoring in the 11th minute after being set up by Rodrigo Mora. Six minutes later, Donyell Malen doubled the visitors’ advantage from the penalty spot following a handball incident involving United defender Ayden Heaven.
United struggled to respond before half-time, with sections of the Old Trafford crowd expressing their frustration as the players left the pitch.
The home side returned with greater intensity after the break, although midfielder Carlos Baleba was forced off with an apparent hamstring injury.
United’s comeback began in the 58th minute when Cunha won a penalty after a challenge by Roma defender Gianluca Mancini. Fernandes initially saw his spot-kick saved by goalkeeper Devis Vásquez, but the penalty was ordered to be retaken because of encroachment by Roma players. The United captain converted the second attempt to reduce the deficit to 2–1.
The goal transformed the atmosphere at Old Trafford, with United increasing the pressure on the Italian side. Bryan Mbeumo struck both goalposts with an effort, while Roma also had to clear a dangerous attempt off the goal line.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 83rd minute when Roma defender Leonardo Balerdi failed to clear the ball properly, allowing Cunha to turn it into the net for the equaliser.
Three minutes later, Cunha completed the turnaround with a powerful finish at the near post after receiving a pass from teenage substitute Shea Lacey, sending the home supporters into celebration.
However, the Brazilian’s night ended controversially. He received a booking for removing his shirt during the celebrations before being sent off in stoppage time after a second yellow card for a foul on Balerdi.
United held on despite playing the closing moments with 10 men, securing their first victory in 10 matches across all competitions and their first win in 54 days.
The result provided temporary relief for Carrick, whose position had come under increasing scrutiny following the team’s poor run of performances.
Speaking after the match, Carrick praised his players and supporters for their response, saying he was proud of the team’s determination to recover from a difficult position.
He also highlighted the contribution of Lacey, praising the young midfielder’s creativity and defensive work.
The victory gives United renewed confidence ahead of their next fixture against Aston Villa, although Carrick will be hoping the performance marks the beginning of a sustained improvement rather than an isolated result.