Cunha double completes Manchester United’s remarkable recovery against Roma

Manchester United came from two goals down to beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford and end a nine-match winless run, securing a dramatic Champions League victory reminiscent of Real Madrid’s comeback against the same opponents earlier in the competition.

Roma made the stronger start in Tuesday’s league-phase encounter, with Argentina forward Matias Soule opening the scoring after 11 minutes. He broke clear before producing a precise left-footed finish beyond goalkeeper Sini Lamine.

The Italian side doubled their advantage six minutes later when Netherlands international Donyell Malen confidently converted a penalty, leaving Manchester United with a substantial deficit to overturn.

Bruno Fernandes gave the home side hope in the 58th minute, reducing the arrears from the penalty spot. Manchester United continued to press for an equaliser and were rewarded seven minutes from time.

Fernandes delivered a cross in the 83rd minute which a Roma defender failed to deal with, allowing Matheus Cunha to score and bring the match level.

The Brazilian then completed the turnaround three minutes later. Cunha raced clear down the right before striking powerfully past the Roma goalkeeper to put Manchester United ahead for the first time.

Cunha was sent off in stoppage time, but his dismissal did not prevent Manchester United from holding on for a victory that had eluded them since September.

Before facing Roma, the English club had played nine matches since a 4-0 victory over Turkish side Sabah in the opening round of the Champions League. That run had produced three draws and six defeats without a win.

The result moved Manchester United on to six points and into 17th place in the European competition’s table. Roma remain on four points in 19th.

Manchester United’s comeback was notable because it mirrored Real Madrid’s recovery against Roma in the second league-phase round. Real Madrid had trailed 3-1 in that match before turning the game around to win 4-3.

Manchester United will hope this result can provide a similar springboard to a sustained revival. Since that victory over Roma, Real Madrid have won every match, including the clasico against traditional rivals Barcelona.

Roma are listed to face Sassuolo in Serie A on 07 November 2026, while Manchester United are scheduled to play Aston Villa in the Premier League on 08 November 2026.