Manchester United kept their perfect start under former midfielder Michael Carrick alive with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Fulham at Old Trafford, delivering another night of late drama that left the Stretford End bouncing.
The Reds looked firmly on course for a third straight victory under Carrick after first-half goals from experienced midfielder Casemiro and in-form forward Matheus Cunha put them in control. Casemiro once again showed his class with a commanding display in midfield, while Cunha continued his fine run with another well-taken goal.
But Fulham, who Carrick had repeatedly warned were no pushovers, stunned the home crowd with a quickfire double. Raul Jimenez calmly converted from the penalty spot before Kevin unleashed a powerful strike that flew past goalkeeper Senne Lammens, swinging the momentum sharply in the visitors’ favour.
Just as frustration and disbelief spread around Old Trafford, United found another famous escape route. Captain Bruno Fernandes delivered a teasing cross into the box, and young striker Benjamin Sesko reacted quickest, swivelling sharply to fire home the winner and send the stadium into wild celebrations.
Speaking after the game, an emotional Carrick praised his players’ resilience and warned against underestimating opponents in the Premier League.
“We knew it would be tough,” Carrick told Sky Sports and MUTV. “Fulham are a really good team. I said it all week – don’t assume we’ll just turn up and win. The game went exactly how I thought it would. It was hard work, but credit to the boys for finding a way.”
Carrick reserved special praise for match-winner Sesko, describing the moment as one that could shape the young forward’s career.
“A late winner in front of the Stretford End – those are the moments you get greedy for,” he said. “For Ben to feel that, it will do him the world of good. Not many players get to experience that here.”
The celebrations after the final goal summed up the emotion of the night, with substitutes, staff and supporters all joining in. Carrick admitted those moments are why people fall in love with football.
“You go from disappointment to pure elation in seconds,” he noted. “That’s what this game does to you. It gives the group belief and gives the supporters extra energy.”
Carrick also highlighted Casemiro’s influence, hinting at a strong finish to what is expected to be the Brazilian’s final season at the club.
“Case has been a huge presence,” he said. “You don’t achieve what he has without being motivated and driven. That was a big goal and a big performance.”
On Cunha, Carrick was equally optimistic, insisting there is still more to come from the forward despite his recent goals.
“He’s got so much ability,” Carrick added. “This is a big step for him, but I’m sure there’s plenty more ahead.”
With three wins from three, excitement is building around Old Trafford, but Carrick remains cautious.
“It’s game by game,” he stressed. “We can play better, and we’re still working on things. Today was about getting through it and finding a way. Three in a row is good, but we want more.”
For United fans – including many following closely from Ghana – it was another reminder of Old Trafford’s special ability to produce unforgettable nights, especially when hope seems to be slipping away.
