Manchester United began their return to the UEFA Champions League with a convincing 4-0 victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah at Old Trafford on Thursday.
The three-time European champions had been absent from the competition for three seasons but wasted little time making their presence felt, scoring three times before half-time through Matheus Cunha, captain Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko.
United took the lead in the 27th minute when Cunha converted Patrick Dorgu’s low cross, before Fernandes doubled the advantage following a well-worked passing move.
Sesko then added a third just before the break after being played through on goal.
The Slovakian forward rounded the goalkeeper before calmly finishing from a tight angle.
United continued to dominate after the interval, with Cunha and Fernandes both going close to adding to the scoreline.
The home side eventually found a fourth when Lisandro Martinez bundled the ball over the line following a scramble from a corner.
Sabah had opportunities to score, with Kaheem Parris and Joy-Lance Mickels coming close, but the visitors failed to find a way past the United defence.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick used the comfortable scoreline to make several changes ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby.
The Red Devils made all five substitutions with more than 20 minutes remaining.
The emphatic victory gives United an ideal start to their Champions League campaign, although their early-season Premier League struggles remain a concern after collecting only four points from their opening three matches.
