Cunha scores twice as Manchester United beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford

Manchester United beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford on Tuesday 3 November after trailing by two goals at half-time. Matheus Cunha scored the equaliser and winner, then received a second yellow card in the 90th minute.

The Champions League victory ended United’s nine-match winless run across all competitions. It also strengthened their position in the race to reach the knockout rounds.

Cunha turns the match

Bruno Fernandes began the comeback from the penalty spot after Gianluca Mancini pushed Cunha. Devis Vásquez saved the captain’s first attempt, but referee Jesús Gil Manzano ordered another kick because of encroachment. Fernandes scored the retake.

United then came close through Bryan Mbeumo, whose shot struck both posts without crossing the line. Harry Maguire also threatened, while Roma cleared a Diogo Dalot header off the line.

Cunha levelled in the 83rd minute, finishing after Dalot’s cross and an error by Leonardo Balerdi. Kobbie Mainoo then drove forward in the move that produced the winner. Substitute Shea Lacey supplied the pass, and Cunha controlled before shooting in off the near post.

He received a booking after removing his shirt and celebrating in the crowd. A challenge on Balerdi brought his second yellow.

Roma lead at the break

Matías Soulé had opened the scoring from Rodrigo Mora’s pass. Donyell Malen added a penalty after Soulé’s shot struck Ayden Heaven’s hand.

United also lost Carlos Baleba in the 46th minute when he injured his hamstring while preparing to shoot. Mainoo was back in the starting line-up after injury.

Protests against the Glazer ownership accompanied the match. Supporters threw tennis balls on to the pitch when the clock reached 20 minutes and five seconds, marking the year of the takeover, 2005.