Manchester United produced a remarkable second half comeback to beat AS Roma 3–2 at Old Trafford on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice to rescue a victory after the hosts had fallen two goals behind.
Roma looked firmly in control after taking a 2–0 lead inside the opening 18 minutes. However, Bruno Fernandes pulled one back from the penalty spot before Cunha scored twice late in the game to complete the turnaround.
The result ended Manchester United's nine match winless run and gave manager Michael Carrick a much needed victory in the Champions League.
Roma Punish United's Poor First Half
The visitors took the lead in the 11th minute through Matías Soulé, who finished after Rodrigo Mora found him in space.
United's defensive problems continued seven minutes later. Ayden Heaven was penalised for handball inside the penalty area, allowing Donyell Malen to convert from the spot and make it 2–0.
The home side struggled to contain Roma's attacks and went into the break facing a difficult task. The frustration among supporters was clear as the players left the pitch at halftime.
Bruno Fernandes and Cunha Lead the Comeback
United returned with greater urgency after the interval, but suffered another setback when Carlos Baleba was forced off with an apparent hamstring injury.
Their opportunity to get back into the game arrived when Matheus Cunha won a penalty following a challenge from Gianluca Mancini.
Bruno Fernandes initially had his spot kick saved by Roma goalkeeper Devis Vásquez. However, the referee ordered a retake because of encroachment, and the United captain made no mistake with his second attempt to reduce the deficit.
United came close to equalising almost immediately when Bryan Mbeumo's effort struck one post before hitting the other and staying out.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 83rd minute. Cunha capitalised on a defensive error to make it 2–2, bringing United level after a difficult opening hour.
Three minutes later, the Brazilian completed the comeback. Substitute Shea Lacey supplied the pass, and Cunha fired home to put United ahead for the first time in the match.
Cunha Sent Off After Decisive Contribution
The night ended on a less positive note for Cunha because, after scoring the two goals that turned the match around, he received a second yellow card in stoppage time and was sent off.
His dismissal meant United had to see out the closing moments without the player who had delivered their comeback.
Nevertheless, the final whistle confirmed a 3–2 victory for Carrick's side, ending a difficult run of results and giving the team a significant lift.
United will now look to carry that confidence into their next fixture, but the defensive problems exposed by Roma will need attention.
A comeback of this nature can lift a team, yet conceding twice so early is not something they can afford to repeat.