Man Utd’s comeback on Tuesday spares Carrick’s job
Man Utd overturned a 2‑0 deficit to beat Roma 3‑2 on Tuesday in the Champions League, securing Michael Carrick’s job for at least one more game. Matheus Cunha sparked the revival before receiving a second yellow that saw him sent off. Sport journalist Nathan Ridley recorded the match details at 21:57 on 3 November 2026.
First‑half collapse
Roma raced into the lead by scoring twice in the opening 18 minutes, with Matias Soule and Donyell Malen capitalising on poor defending. The Red Devils’ nightmare start gave them a mountain to climb. Harry Maguire’s poor clearance was seized upon by Soule, whose shot was blocked before referee Jesus Gil Manzano awarded a penalty that Malen converted. United’s half‑time atmosphere turned to silence as boos faded into apathy at Old Trafford.
Second‑half revival
Just before the hour mark Matheus Cunha won a dubious penalty after going down in the box. Bruno Fernandes saw his initial effort saved by debutant goalkeeper Devis Vasquez, but a retake was ordered for encroachment. Fernandes converted the second attempt emphatically, reigniting United’s belief. Cunha then pounced on Leonardo Balerdi’s clearance to level the scores.
Cunha magic lifts United in Roma thriller
He completed his hat‑trick of influence by hammering the winner past Vasquez in the 86th minute, celebrating shirtless. Cunha was booked for his celebration and later received a second yellow for a late tackle in stoppage time.
End of drama for Carrick
Carrick had warned before the match that Manchester United needed a win, saying it was a whole new Manchester United and the next opportunity to win a football match. Lisandro Martinez, despite a Premier League ban, was dropped to the bench after a poor performance against Chelsea. Kobbie Mainoo made his first start in nearly a month. United’s supporters staged an anti‑Glazer protest at the 21st minute, filling the Stretford End with green and gold balloons, tennis balls and a pie.
Cunha avoids extra ban after Roma dismissal
Chants also targeted Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Jason Wilcox, creating a toxic atmosphere. Baleba charged into the penalty area, clutched a hamstring and was substituted, likely facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines. United held on to claim their first win since beating Sabah ten games earlier, avoiding their worst run since the 1984‑85 season.