Cristiano Ronaldo scored again for Manchester United, but they were beaten 2-1 late on by a battling Young Boys in their Champions League opener after Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s red card.
Despite playing with 10 men for 55 minutes, it looked like a rather solid defensive display would see United come away with a point. But a late error from Jesse Lingard allowed Jordan Siebatcheu (90+5) to slot home the winner with the final kick of the game.
Man Utd had been heavy favourites heading into the game, and made the perfect start as Ronaldo – who went level with Iker Casillas on all-time Champions League appearances (177) – slotted through David Von Ballmoos’ legs inside 13 minutes.
But the complexion of the match-up was changed in the 35th minute as Wan-Bissaka was shown a straight red for a heavy and clumsy challenge on Christopher Martins.
Sensing an opportunity and buoyed by a passionate home crowd, Young Boys pressed and probed for the leveller and made the breakthrough midway through the second half. Moumi Ngamaleu (66) poked the ball past David de Gea, before Siebatcheu scored a late second following continuous pressure from the hosts.
It was a nightmare start for Man Utd in Group F, who will welcome Villarreal – who beat them in the Europa League final three months ago – to Old Trafford in two weeks’ time in desperate need of three points.
More to follow…
What’s next?
Sunday 19th September 1:00pm
Kick off 2:00pm
Man Utd are back in action on Super Sunday when they travel to West Ham, live on Sky Sports; kick-off 2pm. Their next Champions League game will come at home to Villarreal on Wednesday September 29.
