Cunha double gives United first win in 10 games in 3-2 Roma comeback, but red card bites
Manchester United came from 2-0 down to beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice late on before he was sent off. The win eases the pressure on Carrick, but Cunha's suspension and a hamstring injury to Carlos Baleba bring fresh concerns.
Manchester United beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford on Tuesday night after falling two goals behind. Matheus Cunha scored twice late on, then was sent off in stoppage time. The result ends a nine-match winless run that had put Carrick’s job in serious doubt.
Roma were in control at the break. Matías Soulé opened the scoring. Donyell Malen then doubled the lead from the penalty spot.
A retaken penalty sparked United’s second-half comeback
The comeback began with a reprieve. Roma’s debutant goalkeeper Devis Vasquez saved Bruno Fernandes’ first penalty. The kick was ordered to be retaken because Roma players had encroached. Fernandes scored at the second attempt in the 58th minute.
The goal ended a lean spell for Fernandes. He had gone 18 shots in all competitions without scoring. It was also his 50th penalty for United.
Cunha drew United level from close range after Leonardo Balerdi failed to clear. He then struck the winner. His first yellow card came for taking his shirt off and diving into the United fans after that goal. A second yellow followed in stoppage time.
The second half was almost entirely United’s. They had 10 of their 15 shots after the break, and 2.5 of their 2.7 expected goals came in that half, according to The Analyst (Opta). United have now won four Champions League matches after trailing by two or more goals. That puts them level with Real Madrid for the most by any club.
Roma, meanwhile, have lost both of their Champions League games this season after leading by two goals. The other was a 4-3 defeat to Real Madrid. No team had done that twice in one European Cup or Champions League season before.
Cunha ban and Baleba injury stretch United’s squad
After four league-phase games, United have two wins and two defeats for six points. Roma have four points from one win, one draw and two defeats.
The result also ended a run of three straight defeats. The domestic picture remains difficult. United are 17th in the Premier League and above the relegation zone only on goal difference.
The night came at a cost. Baleba went off with a hamstring injury early in the second half.
Carrick called it an important night but said he would not get carried away with a single win. His message to the players was to stay calm before another big game at the weekend.
In the Champions League, United will be without Cunha for their next match, away at Sporting.
