Manchester United secured a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah in their return to the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, ahead of their Premier League derby against Manchester City this weekend. The win marked a strong start to the group stage for United, who have now scored nine goals in two home matches this season.
Matheus Cunha opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, capitalizing on an assist from Patrick Dorgu. Sabah, making their Champions League debut, showed moments of resilience but proved unable to mount sustained pressure against the more experienced United side. Shortly before half-time, Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko extended the lead, with Sesko converting a classic centre-forward finish after a pass from Bryan Mbeumo.
Sesko’s performance was a highlight, underscoring his growing importance to the team under interim manager Michael Carrick. Despite limited Premier League starts so far this season, Sesko’s clinical finishing and committed play suggest he may feature more prominently in upcoming matches, including the highly anticipated derby on Sunday. His late goal before the break and overall impact raised questions about whether Carrick will start him against Manchester City.
The second half saw continued dominance from United, with Cunha scoring his second goal to further secure the advantage. Bruno Fernandes added a penalty, and Lisandro Martinez contributed with a goal following a low cross from Joshua Zirckee, who came on as a substitute. The match also offered opportunities for younger players, as Carrick brought on prospects Harry Amass and Shea Lacey, who gained valuable Champions League experience during their 20-minute cameo.
Defensively, United rotated their lineup, resting some regular starters such as Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, and Luke Shaw, who is expected to return for the Manchester derby. While the defensive alliance displayed occasional vulnerabilities, including moments where Patrick Dorgu was exposed, these lapses were not punished by Sabah’s limited attack. Sabah’s best chance came when Joy-Lance Mickels missed a header that could have briefly leveled the score.
Overall, the game served as a tune-up for Manchester United, providing Carrick an opportunity to test different tactical options and player combinations ahead of a crucial fixture against their local rivals. While the Azerbaijani side showed spirit, they were ultimately outclassed as United maintained control and asserted their credentials in Europe’s premier competition.