Manchester United produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat AS Roma 3-2 in their UEFA Champions League encounter at Old Trafford on Tuesday, recovering from a two-goal deficit within the opening 17 minutes.
Roma appeared to be in control after Matías Soulé opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Donyell Malen doubled the visitors’ advantage from the penalty spot six minutes later.
The early goals left United facing another difficult European night, with home supporters expressing their frustration over the team’s performance.
However, the hosts returned from the break with renewed determination and gradually turned the contest around.
United’s comeback began in the 58th minute when captain Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
The hosts continued to push forward, with Matheus Cunha emerging as the decisive figure of the encounter.
The Brazilian forward restored parity in the 83rd minute before completing the turnaround just three minutes later, scoring again in the 86th minute to give United a 3-2 lead.
Cunha’s celebration, however, ended in controversy as he received a second yellow card late in the game and was sent off, leaving his teammates to protect their advantage with 10 men.
United held on until the final whistle to secure a memorable victory, ending a nine-match winless run and giving manager Michael Carrick a significant boost.
The victory also came against the backdrop of protests by Manchester United supporters against the club’s ownership, with fans expressing dissatisfaction with the Glazer family and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The result marked a dramatic turnaround for United, who had looked destined for defeat after conceding twice inside the opening 17 minutes.
