Three years after their last appearance in the competition, Manchester United returned to the Champions League with a clear-cut victory. At Old Trafford, the Red Devils dominated Sabah FC 4-0 and launched their European campaign in the best possible way.
The start of the match, however, was not entirely straightforward. Sabah played without inhibition and tried to take advantage of the spaces left by the Mancunians. United had to wait before truly taking control of the game.
Cunha breaks the deadlock
In the 27th minute, Manchester United finally found a way through. Matheus Cunha capped off a fine attacking move to give the Red Devils the lead. This goal gradually freed up a Mancunian side that began to impose its rhythm.
Sabah resisted for a few more minutes, but United picked up the pace before the break. In the 42nd minute, Bruno Fernandes doubled the lead. Then, just before half-time, Manchester struck again.
Mbeumo already decisive
In the 45th minute, Bryan Mbeumo collected the ball, held off the pressure and set up Benjamin Šeško perfectly, who rounded the goalkeeper before slotting the ball home. Half-time score: 3-0.
For Mbeumo, the evening was inevitably a special one: the Cameroonian international was playing his first Champions League match and was already proving decisive with an assist for Šeško.
After the break, United controlled proceedings even more. Sabah tried to react, but the Red Devils gave the Azerbaijani club no chance to get back into the match.
In the 68th minute, Lisandro Martínez added Manchester's fourth goal following a scrambled play inside the box. Final score: 4-0.
Michael Carrick was then able to manage the closing stages of the match. Mbeumo left the pitch to applause after a successful first European evening.
Old Trafford rediscovers its European nights
Manchester United could not have dreamed of a better comeback. Four goals scored, none conceded: a victory that immediately gives the Red Devils confidence heading into this new campaign.
For Mbeumo, the memory will be even more special: first Champions League match, first start and first assist.
Old Trafford had been waiting for Manchester United's return among Europe's elite. The answer came with four goals.
Manchester United 4-0 Sabah.
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