Michael Carrick’s Manchester United maintained their perfect start to the season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham on Sunday, clinched by a last-minute goal from Benjamin Sesco. Despite goals from Casemiro and Matheus Cunha putting the Red Devils ahead, Fulham fought back with goals from Raul Jimenez and Kevin to equalize. However, it was Sesco who turned the tide with a magnificent late equalizer.
United began the match strongly with Amad Diallo and Harry Maguire testing Fulham’s Bernd Leno, while Senne Lamence produced an impressive save to deny Joachim Andersen’s close-range shot. Carrick’s team eventually took the lead after a VAR review overturned a foul on Cunha, allowing Casemiro to score with a header from a Bruno Fernandes free-kick.
The first half saw limited clear chances, with United nearly extending their lead after halftime until Leno thwarted Brian Mbeumo’s effort. However, Cunha found the net with a powerful strike after receiving a perfect through ball from Casemiro, giving United a crucial two-goal advantage.
Fulham thought they had equalized when Jorge Cuenca scored, but the goal was disallowed due to offside in the buildup. Despite some efforts from Sesco, Lamence was vigilant, stopping a potential own goal from Maguire.
As the match progressed, Raul Jimenez converted a penalty after a foul on Maguire, and Kevin’s shot from the edge of the penalty area equalized for Fulham. Just as it seemed United might settle for a draw, Sesco skillfully maneuvered inside the box to secure the win, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Goalkeeper and Defense Ratings
Senne Ramens (8/10): Made crucial saves to deny Andersen and Wilson and nearly prevented an own goal.
Diogo Dalot (5/10): Struggled defensively against Chukwueze and looked exposed at times.
Harry Maguire (5/10): Was active in defense but misjudged a play that almost led to an own goal.
Lisandro Martinez (7/10): Solid in defense, contributing positively to the team’s control.
Luke Shaw (6/10): Handled Wilson well defensively but lacked attacking support.
Midfield Ratings
Casemiro (9/10): Key performer, scoring the opening goal and assisting with a brilliant pass.
Coby Mainu (7/10): Improved as the game progressed, showing strong defensive instincts.
Bruno Fernandes (7/10): Played a significant role in set pieces and maintained energetic involvement.
Attack Ratings
Amad Diallo (7/10): Frequently a threat and worked hard defensively.
Brian Mbeumo (6/10): Had limited impact, wasting a good chance early in the game.
Mateus Cunha (7/10): Contributed significantly to both goals and showed great movement.
Substitutes and Manager Ratings
Benjamin Sesco (8/10): Despite a miss early on, he netted a vital winner.
Manuel Ugarte (5/10): Could have done more to prevent Fulham’s equalizer.
Nouser Mazraoui (5/10): Didn’t make much of an impact defensively after stepping onto the field.
Yoro Lenny (N/A): Replaced by Mbeumo late in the match.
Michael Carrick (7/10): While not his team’s most dominant display, securing another win is crucial for building momentum.
Fan Take: This match underscores the excitement surrounding Manchester United’s resurgence under Carrick’s management. Fans are hopeful that such thrilling performances will not only lead to victories but also reinvigorate the club’s championship aspirations, potentially elevating the entire league’s competitiveness this season.
