Manchester United complete stunning comeback to beat AS Roma in UEFA Champions League

Manchester United overturned a two-goal half-time deficit to beat AS Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford in a remarkable UEFA Champions League comeback on Tuesday.

The visitors appeared firmly in control after a dominant opening 45 minutes, but Manchester United produced a dramatic second-half response. Matheus Cunha scored twice to lead the turnaround, although the Brazil forward was sent off late in the match.

AS Roma took the lead in the 11th minute when Matias Soule finished from Rodrigo Mora’s pass. Manchester United’s defence had been opened up, allowing Soule to take advantage of the space and give the visitors an early advantage.

The situation worsened for Michael Carrick’s side seven minutes later. Donyell Malen converted from the penalty spot after Ayden Heaven was penalised for handball, putting AS Roma 2-0 ahead.

Manchester United struggled to create a response before the interval and were booed by their own supporters as they went into the dressing room. However, they returned from the break with renewed intensity and quickly began to put pressure on the visitors.

Bruno Fernandes pulled one goal back from the penalty spot in the 58th minute, although he had to take the kick twice. Just a minute later, Bryan Mbeumo came within inches of equalising when his effort struck both posts in succession.

The sustained pressure eventually brought Manchester United level in the 83rd minute. Cunha capitalised on a mistake by Leonardo Balerdi to make it 2-2, setting up a remarkable late turnaround.

Three minutes later, the Brazilian completed the comeback with a powerful strike at the near post. His second goal put Manchester United in front for the first time and appeared to have secured a memorable victory.

Cunha’s night ended unusually, however. He had already been booked for removing his shirt during his goal celebration before receiving a second yellow card in the 90th minute plus one for a late tackle on Balerdi.

Manchester United were therefore forced to defend with 10 men during the closing stages. They survived AS Roma’s final attacks to protect their lead, recovering from a poor first half to claim an important home victory.