BREAKING: Bruno Fernandes on Target as Manchester United Thrash Azerbaijan Outfit in Champions League Opener—-Manchester United made a commanding return to Europe’s elite competition as goals from Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Benjamin Šeško and Lisandro Martínez secured a 4-0 victory over Sabah Masazir at Old Trafford.
Manchester United marked their return to the UEFA Champions League in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 4-0 victory over Azerbaijani champions Sabah Masazir at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
Michael Carrick’s side took control of the contest after a cautious opening spell before eventually breaking through in the 27th minute. Matheus Cunha opened the scoring after Patrick Dorgu’s delivery created the opportunity for the Brazilian to put United ahead.
The hosts quickly took advantage of their growing dominance, with captain Bruno Fernandes doubling the advantage in the 42nd minute.
United then struck again before the interval as Benjamin Šeško found the back of the net to give the Red Devils a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
Sabah, appearing in the Champions League main phase for the first time in their history, struggled to cope with United’s attacking pressure and the quality of the Premier League side.
The Azerbaijani champions had a chance to pull one back during the contest, but United’s defence remained firm, with goalkeeper Senne Lammens also called upon to protect the clean sheet.
United eventually added a fourth in the 68th minute when Lisandro Martínez capitalised on confusion inside the Sabah defence to complete the rout.
The victory gives Manchester United an ideal start to their Champions League campaign after returning to Europe’s premier club competition for the first time since 2023. The result also provides a major confidence boost for Carrick’s squad ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester City.
For Sabah, the heavy defeat brought a difficult end to an otherwise historic night. The club, founded in 2017, earned their place in the Champions League after winning the Azerbaijani title and progressing through the qualifying rounds. Their appearance at Old Trafford represented their first-ever match in the main phase of the competition.
United will now look to build on the impressive European victory as they continue their Champions League campaign, while Sabah will aim to regroup for their upcoming fixtures against some of Europe’s biggest clubs.