Cunha Late Strike Rescues Manchester United From Fulham Defeat
Matheus Cunha scored a late equaliser as Manchester United fought back to secure a 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage, denying the hosts their first Premier League victory of the season.
United appeared destined for a third consecutive defeat after Lisandro Martinez’s unfortunate own goal put Fulham ahead in the second half.
However, with just a minute remaining in normal time, Cunha unleashed a 20-yard effort that took a major deflection off Fulham defender David Affengruber.
The change of direction wrong-footed goalkeeper Bernd Leno before the ball nestled into the corner.
The goal was a cruel blow for Leno, who had produced several important saves to keep United at bay as the visitors searched for an equaliser.
United had come close to taking the lead in the first half when Bruno Fernandes’ effort struck the post following a cutback from Cunha.
Fulham responded strongly, with Josh King and Oscar Bobb both going close, while another Cunha effort from distance was deflected over Leno before striking the post.
Marcus Rashford also missed a good opportunity late in the opening half as neither side managed to break the deadlock.
Fulham eventually took the lead after goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to deal with Calvin Bassey’s low effort.
Martinez then made a poor touch under pressure, sending the ball into his own net as Lammens scrambled to recover.
United pushed forward in search of a response, with Leno making crucial saves to deny Bryan Mbeumo and Cunha.
Their persistence finally paid off when Cunha’s deflected effort found the net, earning United a point and preventing a third defeat in the space of a week.
The result leaves United 12th in the Premier League with five points from five matches, while Fulham remain 19th with two points.