Manchester United open Champions League campaign with 4‑0 win over Sabah

Manchester United returned to the Champions League on Thursday with a 4‑0 victory over Azerbaijan side Sabah at Old Trafford. New signing Cesc Fabregas's club Como impressed on debut as United’s attack clicked, delivering four goals and a comfortable night for the Red Devils.

How the game unfolded

Early pressure paid off when Matheus Cunha headed in from a Patrick Dorgu cross in the 27th minute, giving Michael Carrick’s side the lead. The lead was doubled after Benjamin Sesko finished a through ball from Bryan Mbeumo, rounding goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov before sliding home.

"I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans," Sesko told TNT Sports. "It means a lot to them, especially when they see so many goals. I think it was great for us in general to give us more motivation for the upcoming games."

Later, Lisandro Martinez capitalised on a ricochet off the keeper and a defender to add a third, while Harry Kane headed home from a Michael Olise free‑kick. Olise, who also netted a sumptuous finish seven minutes from time, completed his brace to seal the rout.

Why the result matters

Scoring four goals against a debutant side demonstrates United’s attacking depth, especially with new arrivals like Olise and Fabregas’s Como making an impact. The clean sheet also eases concerns over defensive frailties that have plagued the team in recent league matches.

Looking ahead

With the group stage still in its infancy, United will aim to maintain momentum while managing player fatigue. Carrick has already introduced youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey for their Champions League debuts, signalling a willingness to give experience to the next generation before the upcoming derby against Manchester City.

United’s next European fixture comes against RB Leipzig in early October, a test that will gauge whether the attacking fluency shown against Sabah can be sustained against higher‑rated opposition.