Matheus Cunha inspired Manchester United to one of their greatest European comebacks, scoring twice before being sent off in a thrilling 3-2 Champions League victory over Roma on Tuesday.
Trailing 2-0 after just 17 minutes, United looked set for a fifth defeat in six games and further pressure on manager Michael Carrick. Instead, a second-half turnaround — sparked by Bruno Fernandes converting a retaken penalty — saw Cunha strike twice in the final 10 minutes to secure United’s first win since 10 September.
Cunha celebrated his second goal by leaping into the crowd, earning a yellow card that later proved costly when he received a second booking in stoppage time for a foul. Despite being reduced to 10 men, United held on for a vital three points that boost both their knockout-stage hopes and Carrick’s prospects of remaining in charge.
Does the win save Carrick’s job?
The victory was crucial for the 45-year-old, whose position had looked increasingly fragile. It guarantees he will take charge of Sunday’s home game against Aston Villa and has lifted confidence in the squad. The club hierarchy had been hoping Carrick could ride out a nine-game winless run, and this result offers him breathing space.
However, tougher tests lie ahead: Villa at home and Liverpool away. Another defeat in either match would quickly restore the intense pressure, and Carrick could still be out of a job by December. For now, he has earned the chance to keep fighting.
Cunha the standout hero
The Brazilian was the catalyst. He won the penalty that got United back into the contest and then scored both the equaliser and the winner. Substitute Shea Lacey also impressed, providing the precise pass for Cunha’s decisive goal. Both players have strengthened their claims for regular starts.
Fernandes leads from the front
After a difficult season that included being dropped for criticising tactics, Fernandes showed his quality once again. He boldly retaken a saved penalty, scored to make it 2-1, and delivered the cross for Cunha’s equaliser. It was a captain’s performance that reminded everyone of his ability to drive the team forward.
Injury concerns cloud the victory
The win came at a potential cost. Carlos Baleba limped off early in the second half with a hamstring injury and appeared in tears. Already without Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw, United can ill afford further absences as they attempt to climb the table.
Fan protests continue
While the result eased some pressure on Carrick, supporter discontent with the club’s ownership remains strong. Fans in the Stretford End released green-and-gold balloons and threw tennis balls onto the pitch before kick-off, continuing their protests against the Glazers, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the board.