Manchester United Cruise Past Sabah In Champions League

Manchester United marked their return to the UEFA Champions League with an emphatic 4–0 victory over Azerbaijani champions Sabah at Old Trafford, giving Michael Carrick’s side the ideal start to the 2026/27 league phase. United took control midway through the opening half when Matheus Cunha scored in the 27th minute. Sabah briefly threatened an equaliser through Joy-Lance Mickels, but the hosts responded decisively before the interval. Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Šeško scored within three minutes of each other, leaving United 3–0 ahead by half-time. The second half was more controlled, with United protecting their advantage while continuing to create opportunities. Lisandro Martínez eventually added the fourth goal, completing a comfortable victory and ensuring the Red Devils finished the night with both four goals and a clean sheet. Carrick praised the quality of United’s attacking football and was particularly pleased with the clean sheet. Šeško’s goal was another encouraging sign after his recent return from a shin injury, with the striker now scoring in consecutive matches ahead of the upcoming Manchester derby. UEFA named Patrick Dorgu Player of the Match, while Sabah still produced a piece of Champions League history despite the heavy defeat. The Azerbaijani side became the first team in the competition to name a starting XI made up of players from 11 different nationalities. For United, the result was exactly what they needed before facing Manchester City in the Premier League. A convincing victory, a clean sheet and another goal for Šeško provide Carrick’s side with valuable momentum heading into the derby.