Manchester United announced their return to the UEFA Champions League in style by recording a 4-0 victory over Sabah FK at Old Trafford yesterday.
Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Benjamin Sesko and Lisandro Martinez all found the net as United put on a commanding display.
Sabah manager Valdas Dambrauskas admitted his side were thoroughly outplayed and singled out Fernandes for special praise after the final whistle.
He said after the game (via CBS Sports Golazo): “The fourth goal for example, if you analyze it.
“It’s very naive, look, first time in my career I’ve conceded a goal like this. Hats off to Bruno Fernandes.
“What a player he is and tonight he absolutely destroyed us, he was involved I think in all of the four goals”.
Bruno Fernandes continues to be the decisive factor
The United captain once again underlined his importance by playing a decisive role in all four goals, including scoring emphatically after a sublime assist from Youri Tielemans.
He specifically outsmarted the Sabah defence for the fourth goal, which even drew applause from their head coach.
Fernandes cleverly floated his free-kick over the wall and into the path of Joshua Zirkzee.
The Dutchman had barely any room to turn as two defenders immediately closed him down, forcing him to improvise.
Zirkzee responded with a touch of brilliance, attempting an audacious backheel towards goal.
Fernandes was unfortunate not to be credited with an assist as the effort was kept out on the goal line, with the rebound falling perfectly for Lisandro Martinez to fire home and complete the 4-0 rout.
The Portuguese magnifico has made a blistering start to the season, scoring four goals and registering one assist across his opening four games, including a sensational hat-trick against Ipswich Town.
United head coach Michael Carrick will now hope his captain can remain fit and continue pulling the strings as the Reds chase their major objectives this season.
Stats from Fotmob.com
