Manchester United produced a remarkable second-half comeback to beat AS Roma 3–2 in the UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
The victory ended United’s nine-match winless run and offered manager Michael Carrick a much-needed boost amid growing pressure over his future.
However, the dramatic night ended with another setback as Matheus Cunha was sent off in stoppage time after scoring twice to complete United’s turnaround.
Roma Shock United With Two First-Half Goals
Manchester United entered the match desperate for a response after a disappointing run of results in the Premier League and Champions League.
But Roma made the worst possible start for the hosts.
Matías Soulé opened the scoring in the 11th minute after United lost possession in midfield. The Roma forward finished from inside the penalty area to silence the Old Trafford crowd.
The visitors doubled their advantage seven minutes later.
Donyell Malen converted a penalty after Ayden Heaven handled the ball in the area, leaving United facing a difficult task.
Roma controlled much of the first half, while United struggled to create clear opportunities.
At half-time, the home side were 2–0 down and staring at another damaging result.
Bruno Fernandes Sparks the Comeback
United returned for the second half with greater urgency.
Their breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty.
The midfielder initially missed the spot-kick, but the referee ordered a retake after Roma goalkeeper Devis Vásquez was penalised for moving off his line.
Fernandes made no mistake with the second attempt, reducing the deficit and giving United renewed belief.
The goal changed the atmosphere at Old Trafford.
United began pressing higher and creating more attacking opportunities, while Roma struggled to maintain their first-half control.
Bryan Mbeumo also came close to scoring, striking the post during a dangerous attacking move.
Cunha Delivers a Dramatic Double
The comeback was completed through Matheus Cunha.
The Brazilian forward equalised in the 83rd minute after Bruno Fernandes delivered a cross into the penalty area.
Roma defender Leonardo Balerdi failed to deal with the ball, allowing Cunha to finish and bring United level.
Three minutes later, Cunha struck again.
Academy youngster Shea Lacey helped create the opportunity before Cunha fired home from a tight angle to put United ahead 3–2.
Old Trafford erupted as United completed one of their most dramatic comebacks of the season.
But the celebration was short-lived.
Cunha received a second yellow card in the 91st minute after a reckless challenge on Roma defender Balerdi.
The Brazilian was sent off, leaving United to defend their narrow lead with 10 men.
Roma pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but could not find another goal.
United held on to secure a vital Champions League victory.
Carrick Gets a Much-Needed Lifeline
The result represents a significant moment for Michael Carrick.
United had gone nine matches without a win across competitions, their worst run since 1988.
The poor results had increased pressure on the manager, with supporters questioning the team’s performances and the club’s direction.
The defeat to Chelsea at the weekend had left United hovering near the Premier League relegation zone.
Tuesday’s comeback does not erase those problems, but it gives Carrick a valuable opportunity to rebuild confidence.
The manager will also take encouragement from the team’s second-half response and the contributions of Fernandes, Cunha and Lacey.
United still need to improve defensively, particularly after conceding twice in the opening 18 minutes.
What the Result Means for Manchester United
The victory gives United three important Champions League points and ends their immediate run of poor results.
However, Cunha’s suspension following his red card will be a concern for the next European fixture.
United must now focus on maintaining the momentum from their comeback while addressing the defensive mistakes that allowed Roma to take control early.
The result could also provide a turning point in Carrick’s season, although his long-term future will depend on whether United can follow this performance with consistent results.
What Next for Man United?
United will return to Premier League action against Aston Villa on Sunday, November 8.
The match will provide another important test for Carrick and his players as they attempt to climb away from the bottom end of the table.
For now, the Roma comeback has given United something they desperately needed: a win, renewed confidence and a reason for their supporters to believe again.
But the bigger question remains: can Carrick turn this dramatic Champions League victory into a genuine revival, or will United’s problems return in their next Premier League match?
