Manchester United ain’t dead yet.
The Reds got their first win in more than 50 days on Tuesday with a comeback befitting of both the club’s history and the team’s current clumsy form. They were under fire and down 2-0 early in the UEFA Champions League Group Phase against AS Roma, but a penalty conversion by captain Bruno Fernandes helped spark a turnaround that could yet save the team from its slump.
The signs of an improved performance were there somewhat, but the mood quickly soured after a pair
of defensive mishaps leading to goal. Diogo Dalot was caught way out of position in the 11th minute as the Italians opened the scoring, and Donyell Malen added to the lead from the spot with an Ayden Heaven handball just six minutes later. The Romans backed off a bit, but could well have added to the lead before halftime.
Leny Yoro, playing at right back once again, came in clutch with a last-second sliding challenge to deny a third goal with Senne Lammens left scrambling on a counter. It was a bit of a boost going into the break, but there was still plenty of work to do.
Carlos Baleba had to leave the game shortly after the restart, appearing to have pulled his hamstring just a little over a month after returning from a preseason injury. He was replaced by Youri Tielemans, who suited the second half approach as United looked to improve the passing.
The more positive play led to a penalty in the 58th minute as Matheus Cunha was brought down from behind. Bruno Fernandes missed the first try, but got a re-do when the VAR reviewed several Roma players running into the area before the kick was taken. He converted the second time, and the result was an extended period of United dominance.
For about 20 minutes the Reds had all of the ball, a few good chances, but no goals. Harry Maguire got plenty of attention in the box on corner kicks, but saw his best chance deflected away at the back post.
The equalizer finally came with a stroke of luck in the 83rd minute. Cunha found the ball at his feet after a whiff by his marker, who went to attack the cross and let it through his feet instead. The Brazilian converted from close range and the comeback was on.
Just three minutes later, it was Cunha again. His first touch was a bit heavy looking to pusht he ball into space in the right half space, but his shot was both powerful and accurate as it beat the keeper at the near post.
Cunha took of his shirt and dove into the section of home fans just in front of the Roma section. It was the first of two yellow cards he would receive in the final minute, but thankfully his misstep did not prevent himself from becoming the hero of the night. United held on, Michael Carrick’s side added three to their tally in Europe, and gave themselves something to build on going into the weekend against Aston Villa.
