Manchester United overturned a two-goal half-time deficit to defeat Roma, as Matheus Cunha scored twice in a dramatic second-half comeback. The result offered manager Michael Carrick a timely boost, but Cunha was sent off in the 90th minute after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Leonardo Balerdi.
Roma dominated the first half and went into the break 2-0 ahead. Matías Soulé opened the scoring after Rodrigo Mora found him in space, and Donyell Malen converted a penalty after Harry Maguire’s miskick led to a handball by Ayden Heaven. United’s defending had been fragile, with Diogo Dalot repeatedly caught high up the pitch.
United’s response began after the interval. Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot after Roma goalkeeper Devis Vásquez saved his first attempt, only for referee Jesús Gil Manzano to order a retake because of encroachment. Fernandes converted the second kick.
Cunha then levelled in the 83rd minute, finishing after a mistake by Balerdi. He completed the turnaround after a forward burst from Kobbie Mainoo and a pass from substitute Shea Lacey, controlling the ball before shooting inside the near post. Cunha celebrated by removing his shirt and surfing in the crowd, earning his first booking before his late dismissal.
The win was United’s first in 10 matches across all competitions and left them in a good position to qualify for the Champions League knockout rounds. Carrick will take his side into Sunday’s Premier League home match against Aston Villa with renewed belief, while the comeback came against a backdrop of continued fan protests over the club’s ownership.
Sources: The Guardian Sport.