Man United, Bayern Send Strong Champions League Statement As Como Shock Leipzig

Manchester United marked their return to the UEFA Champions League in emphatic fashion on Thursday, defeating Azerbaijani champions Sabah 4-0 at Old Trafford to begin their league-phase campaign with a convincing victory.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the result gave United a winning start to their return to Europe’s elite club competition after a three-season absence. Matheus Cunha opened the scoring in the first half before captain Bruno Fernandes doubled the advantage, while Benjamin Sesko added a third before the break. Lisandro Martinez completed the rout in the second half.

United controlled much of the contest and rarely looked troubled by the Champions League debutants, who had progressed through four qualifying rounds to reach the league phase. Patrick Dorgu was particularly influential, providing the assist for Cunha’s opener as Michael Carrick’s side eventually made their superior quality count.

The victory also provided a timely boost for United following an inconsistent opening to their Premier League campaign, with the club now turning their attention to Sunday’s Manchester derby against Manchester City.

Carrick made several changes to his team with the derby in mind, resting a number of key players while still naming a strong enough side to secure a comfortable European victory.

Elsewhere, Bayern Munich delivered an even bigger statement by sweeping aside Bodø/Glimt 5-0 at the Allianz Arena. Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane and Alphonso Davies were among the scorers, while Michael Olise added two late goals to complete the heavy victory.

The result extended Bayern’s remarkable record of winning their opening Champions League match for the 24th consecutive time, a run stretching back to 2002.

Como also enjoyed a memorable Champions League debut, defeating RB Leipzig 4-1 in a standout result for the Italian newcomers. The victory saw Como make an immediate impression in their first appearance in the competition’s league phase.

Other Thursday results saw Lens defeat Slavia Prague 3-2, while Fenerbahce and Roma played out a 1-1 draw. PSV Eindhoven were also held to a 1-1 draw by Shakhtar Donetsk.

The impressive victories by Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Como ensured an action-packed conclusion to the opening round of Champions League fixtures, with several clubs making strong early statements in the new league-phase campaign.