KEY POINTS
- Manchester United clinched a 2-0 victory against Fulham to extend their unbeaten streak under Michael Carrick.
- Veteran midfielder Casemiro broke the deadlock with a powerful first-half header at a roaring Old Trafford.
- The Red Devils made history as their defensive unit successfully nullified Fulham’s high-pressing attack.
Manchester United continued their resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick with a decisive 2-0 victory over Fulham on Sunday. The win at Old Trafford further solidifies United’s push for a top-four finish in the Premier League. Following iconic victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, the Red Devils displayed a new level of tactical maturity. This result marks Carrick’s third consecutive league win since taking the helm earlier this year.
The match began with high intensity as both sides looked to establish early dominance in midfield. United found the breakthrough in the 19th minute through a vintage piece of play from Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder rose highest to meet a precise cross, burying a header past Bernd Leno. This opening goal shifted the momentum firmly in favor of the hosts during a tense first half.
Fulham arrived at the Theatre of Dreams in excellent form, having won five of their last eight matches. Marco Silva’s side pushed for an equalizer with aggressive wing play from Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi. However, United’s defensive line, led by Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire, remained remarkably disciplined throughout the contest. The visitors struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized and deep-sitting United back four.
The second half saw United double their advantage through a moment of individual brilliance. Matheus Cunha, recalled to the starting lineup due to injury concerns, scored a stunning goal in the 56th minute. His powerful strike into the roof of the net effectively ended Fulham’s hopes of a comeback. Even a late disallowed goal for the visitors via VAR could not dampen the spirits of the home crowd.
United’s recent performances under Carrick have restored a sense of identity and confidence within the squad. The team now appears more comfortable defending leads and exploiting space on the counter-attack. Young talents like Kobbie Mainoo continue to thrive alongside experienced leaders in the center of the park. This balance of youth and experience has been a hallmark of the current unbeaten run.
For Fulham, the defeat serves as a temporary setback in their ambitious campaign for European qualification. Despite the loss, Silva’s men showed glimpses of the attacking fluidly that has defined their season. They remain firmly in the race for a top-six finish as the league heads into the spring. United, meanwhile, move closer to securing a prestigious Champions League spot for next season.
