Bruno Fernandes turns saved penalty into United's turning point

Bruno Fernandes led Manchester United to a crucial Champions League victory, easing the pressure on manager Michael Carrick. The penalty took place on November 3, 2026 at Manchester’s Old Trafford, during the group stage of the 2026/27 Champions League.

The Giallorossi had dominated at Old Trafford, leading 2‑0 after 18 minutes thanks to a goal by Matias Soulé and a penalty by Donyell Malen. Manchester United had the chance to come back with a soft penalty, but Bruno Fernandes saw his shot saved by Devis Vasquez.

The decisive penalty

Because Bryan Cristante intervened in the penalty area, the VAR ordered the penalty to be retaken. On the second attempt Bruno Fernandes scored, launching the comeback that led to a 3‑2 victory.

Bruno Fernandes explained that on the first shot he was “lucky”, while on the second he made a conscious decision. The goalkeeper Devis Stiven Vasquez Llach of AS Roma saved Bruno Fernandes' first penalty.

VAR retake fuels United comeback, buying Carrick a lifeline

Bruno Fernandes told Sky Sport Italy that he felt a great responsibility and that a penalty is always a stressful moment. He added that Bryan Cristante's premature charge gave him the opportunity to retake the shot, choosing to strike it hard without trying to guess the goalkeeper’s direction.

After the 4‑1 defeat to Como, Manchester United’s staff had prevented Bruno Fernandes from speaking with the Italian media, but that evening he was able to converse in Italian and discussed the club’s crisis, which had gone without a win since September 10. Michael Carrick, manager of Manchester United, commented on the importance of the victory, highlighting the team’s difficulties and the need to regain confidence.

Carrick stated that the team has quality, has retained the same players from the previous season and has added new reinforcements this summer, but it must continue to fight. The victory offers hope of regaining confidence and of continuing the season with determination.