Manchester United Player Ratings: Sesko’s Stoppage-Time Heroics Seal Fulham Win

Manchester United Player Ratings: Sesko Shines in Dramatic Win Over Fulham

Manchester United player ratings take center stage after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford, where Benjamin Sesko delivered a last-gasp winner to continue Michael Carrick’s unbeaten run as manager. The dramatic Premier League clash featured attacking flair, defensive lapses, and a showcase of samba-style football from Casemiro and Matheus Cunha, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Bright Start and Casemiro’s Leadership

United started with intensity, pressing Fulham high and creating early chances. Amad Diallo and Harry Maguire both tested Fulham keeper Bernd Leno, while United’s own Senne Lammens produced a crucial save to deny Joachim Andersen. The breakthrough came after VAR overturned a penalty for a foul on Cunha, ruling it was outside the box. From the resulting free-kick, Bruno Fernandes delivered a pinpoint cross, and Casemiro powered home a header to give United a deserved lead.

Midfield Control and Second-Half Drama

Both sides struggled to create clear opportunities for a spell, as Kobbie Mainoo grew into the midfield battle alongside Casemiro. Fulham’s sporadic counters were well marshaled by Lisandro Martinez, while Luke Shaw kept Wilson largely quiet on the flank. Early in the second half, Leno thwarted Bryan Mbeumo’s run, and Lammens was alert to keep out a dangerous free-kick from Harry Wilson. United doubled their advantage with a moment of samba magic: Casemiro’s no-look pass released Cunha, who raced clear and smashed his shot into the top corner.

Fulham’s Late Comeback Stuns Old Trafford

Fulham looked to have pulled one back when Jorge Cuenca bundled in from close range, but VAR chalked it off for offside. As United pressed for a third, Sesko—on as a substitute—struck the post, and Lammens denied Maguire an own goal with a sharp stop. The visitors capitalized on a defensive lapse when Maguire brought down Raul Jimenez in the box, allowing the Mexican to reduce the deficit with a composed penalty. Just minutes later, substitute Kevin unleashed a stunning drive from the edge of the area to draw Fulham level, sending shockwaves through Old Trafford.

Benjamin Sesko the Hero for Manchester United

With the match seemingly destined for a draw, Benjamin Sesko delivered a moment of brilliance. Swiveling inside the penalty area after a clever pass from Fernandes, he rifled his shot past Leno into the top corner to restore United’s lead in stoppage time. The Theatre of Dreams erupted as Carrick’s side secured another important three points.

Manchester United Player Ratings vs Fulham

• Senne Lammens (9/10): Exceptional shot-stopping, crucial saves to keep United in the game. Unlucky not to keep a clean sheet.
• Diogo Dalot (5/10): Struggled defensively against Chukwueze, looked exposed at times.
• Harry Maguire (5/10): Mixed performance; strong in aerial duels but conceded penalty and nearly scored an own goal.
• Lisandro Martinez (7/10): Solid defensive display, nullified Jimenez, and distributed well from the back.
• Luke Shaw (6/10): Steady defensively but offered little going forward.
• Casemiro (9/10): Scored the opener, assisted the second, and dictated play in midfield; a true leader’s performance.
• Kobbie Mainoo (7/10): Recovered from early mistakes, showed maturity and a good passing range.
• Bruno Fernandes (7/10): Two assists, relentless energy, and moments of quality throughout.
• Amad Diallo (7/10): Bright attacking threat, strong defensive contribution.
• Bryan Mbeumo (6/10): Lively but wasteful with chances, struggled for consistent service.
• Matheus Cunha (7/10): Played a key role in both goals, intelligent movement and clinical finish.
• Benjamin Sesko (8/10): Made an instant impact; unlucky with a header but won it with a superb late strike.
• Manuel Ugarte (5/10): Could have done more defensively during Fulham’s equalizer.
• Noussair Mazraoui (5/10): Offered little after coming on as a late substitute.
• Leny Yoro (N/A): Introduced in stoppage time with little opportunity to influence the match.
• Manager – Michael Carrick (7/10): Tactical setup worked for long stretches, but the team’s late wobble will be a concern despite the win.

Key Talking Points: United’s Resilience and Room for Improvement

United’s ability to secure victory in challenging circumstances highlights the growing confidence and resilience under Carrick’s leadership. The midfield partnership of Casemiro and Mainoo provides both grit and creativity, with Fernandes orchestrating attacks. However, defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in wide areas and during late-game situations, will need addressing if United are to sustain their momentum in the Premier League.

What This Result Means for Manchester United

This win keeps United firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish, extending their perfect start under Carrick. The blend of youth and experience, combined with decisive moments from players like Sesko and Casemiro, suggests a promising path forward. But with stronger opponents ahead, tightening up defensively will be crucial.

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Opinion: Sesko’s Emergence a Bright Spot for United

Benjamin Sesko’s match-winning cameo won’t go unnoticed. His composure under pressure and knack for decisive contributions may see him play a larger role as the campaign unfolds. While United’s performance wasn’t perfect, the ability to dig deep and find a way to win is the hallmark of a team on the rise.