Manchester United secured their first win of the Premier League season on Saturday, overcoming newly-promoted Burnley 3–2 at Old Trafford thanks to a 97th-minute penalty from Bruno Fernandes.
The result brought some relief for manager Ruben Amorim, who had come under heavy criticism after United’s midweek exit from the League Cup at the hands of League Two side Grimsby Town.
United twice surrendered the lead before Fernandes, who failed to convert from the spot in last weekend’s 1–1 draw against Fulham, converted a decisive penalty awarded after a VAR review confirmed a pull on Amad Diallo.
Victory moves United to four points from their opening three matches and alleviates immediate pressure on Amorim ahead of the forthcoming international break.
The club had suffered a humiliating defeat in midweek, losing to fourth-tier opposition for the first time in its history. Amorim responded by questioning his position, stating that “something has to change” and that he would “reflect on the situation”.
As part of the fallout, goalkeeper André Onana was replaced following his involvement in both Grimsby goals. Meanwhile, Benjamin Šeško, signed for £74 million, began on the bench for a third successive league match.
United started with intent, eager to restore confidence. Martin Dúbravka, selected in goal, saved well to deny Bryan Mbeumo an early opener. United were initially awarded a penalty when Mason Mount went to ground under Kyle Walker’s challenge, but the decision was overturned after a VAR check.
The home side opened the scoring in fortunate fashion. Casemiro’s header struck the crossbar and rebounded off Josh Cullen and into the net for an own goal.
Diallo missed a major opportunity to extend the lead before half-time, slicing wide after good work by Mbeumo.
Burnley had offered little threat in the first half but equalised ten minutes into the second period when Lyle Foster met Jacob Bruun Larsen’s cross with an outstretched finish.
United responded immediately. Mbeumo found space inside the box to meet Diogo Dalot’s delivery and score his first Premier League goal since his £65 million move from Brentford.
However, United’s ongoing issues at set pieces and in goal re-emerged. Burnley appeared to have drawn level again through Foster, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Minutes later, Altay Bayındır failed to deal with Loum Tchaouna’s shot, and Jaidon Anthony pounced to equalise.
Amorim introduced Šeško with fifteen minutes remaining. The Slovenian forward had two headed chances to score but missed both.
The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time. Following a lengthy VAR review, Fernandes converted from the spot after Anthony was adjudged to have fouled Diallo inside the box.
Burnley were left with three points from their opening three matches, having come close to securing a draw. United, meanwhile, claimed a much-needed win as pressure temporarily eased on their manager.
