Manchester United came from two goals down to beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford and end a nine-match winless run, producing a comeback reminiscent of Real Madrid’s recovery against the same opponents earlier in the Champions League.
Roma took control inside the opening 17 minutes of Tuesday’s league-phase meeting. Argentina forward Matias Soule opened the scoring in the 11th minute, running clear before finishing into the net with a composed left-footed strike beyond goalkeeper Seni Lamine.
The Italian side doubled their advantage six minutes later when Dutch forward Donyell Malen converted a penalty confidently against the Belgian goalkeeper.
Manchester United, who had failed to win any of their previous nine matches, looked set for another disappointing result. Their run since a 4-0 victory over Turkish side Sabah in the opening round of the Champions League had produced three draws and six defeats.
Bruno Fernandes gave the home side renewed hope in the 58th minute by reducing the deficit from the penalty spot.
The Portugal midfielder was involved again late in the game when his cross in the 83rd minute was misjudged by a Roma defender. The loose ball fell to Matheus Cunha, who made no mistake from close range to level the score.
Cunha then completed the turnaround three minutes later. He broke through on the right, advanced into the box and struck a powerful shot past the Roma goalkeeper to put Manchester United 3-2 ahead.
The Brazilian was sent off in stoppage time, but his dismissal did not prevent Manchester United from securing their first victory since September.
The result moved Ruben Amorim’s side on to six points, placing them 17th in the Champions League table. Roma remain on four points in 19th.
The nature of the comeback drew comparisons with Real Madrid’s victory over Roma in the second round of the league phase. Real Madrid had been trailing 3-1 in that match before recovering to win 4-3.
Manchester United will hope their dramatic win can have a similar effect. Real Madrid went on to win every match after that comeback, including the clasico against traditional rivals Barcelona.
Roma’s next listed fixture is against Sassuolo in Serie A on 07 November 2026. Manchester United are scheduled to face Aston Villa in the Premier League on 08 November 2026.
