Manchester United recovered from two goals down to beat Roma in a remarkable Champions League match at Old Trafford, with Matheus Cunha scoring four minutes from time to secure a first victory in nine games.
Roma appeared to have put United in serious trouble by scoring twice in six first-half minutes. Matias Soule opened the scoring before Donyell Malan converted a penalty, leaving head coach Michael Carrick seemingly close to the sack.
The goals intensified the anger inside Old Trafford, where supporters were already protesting against the club’s ownership. Green tennis balls were thrown on to the pitch, while green and gold balloons were released as the teams emerged.
Fans also directed chants at the Glazer family, minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director of football Jason Wilcox.
United’s problems were compounded by an injury to £70m midfielder Carlos Baleba. The hamstring problem is expected to keep him out for a period of time, adding to the sense of a night going badly wrong for the home side.
However, United responded after the interval and began to turn the match around.
Captain Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty to reduce the deficit, keeping his composure after the spot-kick had to be taken again when a Roma player entered the area.
The hosts then came close to an equaliser when Bryan Mbeumo’s effort struck both posts. Roma were unable to hold out, though, as Leonardo Balerdi’s mistake allowed Matheus Cunha to make it 2-2.
Cunha completed the turnaround with four minutes remaining, cutting in before driving a low shot into the net from an acute angle.
The Brazil international was sent off in stoppage time after receiving a second booking, leaving United to defend their narrow advantage with 10 men.
Despite the late setback, United held on in front of a frenzied home crowd to claim an unexpected Champions League victory and end their run without a win.
