Man United player ratings v Sabah: Fernandes 7, Tielemans 8, Sesko 8
Manchester United secured a victory against Azerbaijan's Sabah in a Champions League group stage match. Key players like Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko contributed to the win, while the team maintained a clean sheet.
Why it matters
Reflects the competitive landscape of European football and the performance of high-profile clubs in international tournaments.
Azerbaijan champions Sabah did not even exist a decade ago, but after winning the domestic title, they moved into the qualifying rounds and beat Israel's Hapoel Beer-Sheva to proudly take their place in the group stage of the Uefa Champions League. A visit to Old Trafford for Manchester United's return to European football's premier competition after a two-season absence proved a step too far, though, as Michael Carrick's side rolled over them. Matheus Cunha began the rout in the 27th minute before Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko struck shortly before half-time. Lisandro Martinez added United's fourth as they got the perfect tonic ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby. Sabah made Champions League history, becoming the first club to field a starting line-up consisting of 11 different nationalities. Michael Carrick: "It's nice to have a clean sheet.
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