United rally from 2-0 down to beat Roma 3-2
On 3 November 2026, Manchester United overturned a 2‑0 half‑time deficit to beat Roma 3‑2 in the Champions League at Old Trafford, a result that leaves Michael Carrick’s position looking increasingly untenable and has sparked debate among fans.
First‑half woes
The first half saw United stretched, with a porous defence and a midfield that appeared non‑existent, while Bruno Fernandes looked rattled. Both Roma goals arrived inside the opening 20 minutes, each stemming from United errors before Matias Soule finished the second. Shortly after, United conceded a handball when Ayden Heaven blocked a shot with his arm, an incident that was not ruled a European handball. In first‑half added time United allowed Roma’s third‑choice goalkeeper a save from a long‑range Kobbie Mainoo effort.
Second‑half turnaround
At half‑time Carrick delivered a motivating speech that sparked a resurgence. Early in the second half Carlos Baleba limped off with a hamstring injury, but United began to press with purpose. Because United needed a spark, Bruno Fernandes saw his initial penalty attempt saved, but after a retake he calmly slotted the ball home. Leonardo Balerdi then air‑balled a clearance, allowing Matheus Cunha to score the equaliser. Cunha added a second, hammering home the winner from the near post after a pass from substitute Shea Lacey. He received a second yellow for a lunge on Leonardo Balerdi and was sent off in the 90th minute. United finished the match with ten men, holding on through injury time to secure the win.
Soulé and Malen put Roma in control at Old Trafford
The victory ended a nine‑match winless run, averting a potential ten‑game streak that would have been the worst since 1978. Man United supporters, who had thrown tennis balls in the first half, were heard cheering at the final whistle, and Cunha will always be linked with the dramatic Roma comeback.