Manchester United Edge Fulham in Nail-Biting 3-2 Thriller at Old Trafford
In a match that had everything – goals, controversy, and last-gasp drama – Manchester United secured a vital 3-2 victory over Fulham to keep their Premier League revival firmly on track. Benjamin Sesko's exquisite stoppage-time finish proved the difference, turning potential despair into delirium for the Old Trafford faithful on a pulsating Sunday afternoon in February 2026.
The game, witnessed by a packed stadium and millions tuning in globally, showcased United's resilience under their current management. Trailing at times and rocked by Fulham's spirited comeback, the Red Devils dug deep to claim three points that could prove priceless in the race for European spots – or even higher ambitions. This win marks another step in what has been a remarkable turnaround for a club that has endured turbulent times in recent seasons.
Early Promise and Casemiro's Opener
The contest kicked off with United asserting dominance, their high-pressing game plan forcing Fulham into early errors. Just 19 minutes in, the breakthrough arrived courtesy of the evergreen Casemiro. A penalty was awarded after a handball in the box – initially controversial but upheld following a quick VAR review that overturned an on-field decision. Casemiro stepped up confidently, sending Fulham keeper Bernd Leno the wrong way to make it 1-0.
This goal settled United's nerves, allowing them to control possession and create chances. Fulham, however, showed glimpses of their counter-attacking threat, with quick transitions led by their midfield engine room nearly catching United out. Yet, halftime arrived with the scoreline intact at 1-0, setting the stage for an explosive second half.
United Pull Clear Before Fulham's Fightback
Post-interval, Manchester United wasted no time extending their lead. Matheus Cunha doubled the advantage on 56 minutes, latching onto a precise through-ball and slotting home past Leno with composure. The Brazilian's finish was clinical, rewarding United's sustained pressure and highlighting their improved attacking fluidity this season.
Nine minutes later, at the 65th-minute mark, youngster Pablo Cuenca added a third, curling a beauty into the top corner from the edge of the box. It was a moment of individual brilliance that had the crowd roaring, and for a spell, United looked comfortable. Fulham's defense, under siege, struggled to contain the hosts' wave after wave of attacks.
But football's unpredictability struck back. In the 85th minute, Raul Jimenez converted a penalty after a clumsy challenge in the box, pulling one back to ignite Fulham's hopes. The Mexican striker's cool finish set up a tense finale, and just when United thought they had weathered the storm, Kevin's sublime 92nd-minute equalizer – a curling strike from distance – silenced Old Trafford. It was a screamer that beat Senne Lammens at his near post, earning Fulham a deserved point on merit... or so it seemed.
Sesko's Moment of Magic Seals the Deal
With the clock ticking into stoppage time, enter Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian forward, who has emerged as a key figure in United's resurgence, produced a finish for the ages. Receiving the ball on the turn, Sesko executed a perfect pirouette before unleashing a low drive that bulged the net in the 94th minute. The stadium erupted as the referee's whistle confirmed the winner, leaving Fulham stunned and United's players in jubilant celebration.
Sesko's goal wasn't just a match-winner; it symbolized United's never-say-die attitude. In post-match interviews, the 23-year-old credited his teammates' belief: "We knew we could turn it around. This is for the fans who've stuck with us."
Player Performances and Tactical Insights
Standout stars dotted both sides. For United, Casemiro's leadership in midfield was pivotal, anchoring the defense while contributing offensively. Cunha and Cuenca impressed with their goals, showcasing the depth in United's forward line. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens faced criticism for the late lapse on Kevin's shot but made several crucial saves earlier.
Fulham, managed with flair, punched above their weight. Kevin's equalizer was a highlight, and Jimenez's penalty showed his experience. Bernd Leno pulled off wonder saves, but defensive lapses proved costly. A disallowed goal via VAR added to their frustrations, a decision that sparked heated debates among pundits.
Tactically, United's manager opted for an aggressive 4-3-3, pressing high to disrupt Fulham's build-up. Fulham countered with a compact 3-5-2, relying on transitions, but United's quality shone through in the end. This result underscores United's evolution from a side prone to collapses into one that thrives on drama.
Implications for the Premier League Table
This victory propels Manchester United up the standings, closing the gap on the top four – or perhaps even the title challengers, depending on other results. Their revival, built on smart recruitment like Sesko's summer arrival, has injected optimism among supporters. Recent form suggests consistency is key; upcoming fixtures against rivals will test this mettle.
For Fulham, it's a tale of what might have been. The point seemed secure, but Sesko's intervention leaves them ruing missed opportunities. Mid-table security remains the goal, but performances like this hint at greater potential.
As the Premier League intensifies, matches like this remind us why it's the world's most watched league. United's fans will savor this one, a reminder that at Old Trafford, the drama never ends.
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