Manchester United welcomed Sabah in the opening match of the Champions League 2026-2027 qualifying round. Despite being rated much lower, the Azerbaijani representative entered the game with determination and stood firm against the pressure of the home team in the first 25 minutes.
However, Kaheem Parris' mistake cost Sabah. Man United quickly regained the ball, before Patrick Dorgu made a favorable pass for Matheus Cunha to finish close range, opening the score.
Sabah also had a good opportunity when Joy-Lance Mickels headed wide of the goal at close range. Unable to take advantage of the opportunity, the away team quickly collapsed under increasing pressure from Man United.
Bruno Fernandes doubled the gap at the end of the first half after a precise back pass from Youri Tielemans. Just 3 minutes later, Benjamin Sesko escaped, passed goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov and easily put the ball into the empty net, helping the "Red Devils" enter the break with a 3-0 advantage.
With a safe distance, Michael Carrick's team actively slowed down in the second half to save energy for the Manchester derby at the weekend. However, they still scored a fourth goal when Lisandro Martinez took advantage of the chaotic situation in the penalty area to tap the ball into the net.
In the end, Man United won 4-0, thereby having a perfect start on their return to the Champions League.
Results of remaining matches:
PSV 1-1 Shakhtar Donetsk
Fenerbahce 1-1 Roma
Slavia Prague 2-3 Lens
Como 4-1 RB Leipzig
Bayern Munich 5-0 Glimt
