AFCON 2025
Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as Manchester United fought back to beat Ipswich Town 5-2 at Old Trafford. Leif Davis had shocked the hosts with an early opener, but Fernandes leveled before the break after Marcelino Nunez’s slip gifted United possession.
United took control after halftime. Harry Maguire’s deflected effort put them ahead, and Jacob Greaves then conceded a penalty, which Fernandes converted before completing his treble. He later teed up Bryan Mbeumo for a fifth, with Chuba Akpom grabbing a late Ipswich consolation.
The win eases pressure on Michael Carrick’s side after their opening-day loss to Hull City, though Gary Neville flagged defensive concerns after United shipped goals to both newly promoted teams so far. Ipswich, despite the defeat, showed real quality and will target easier fixtures to build on their bright start.
Chelsea also survived a scare, beating Brighton 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller at Stamford Bridge. Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Pedro Neto were on target as Xabi Alonso’s side stayed perfect through two games, despite needing to hold off a spirited Brighton fightback.
Sunderland claimed their first win of the season, beating Fulham 1-0 through substitute Wilson Isidor’s late strike. Fulham remain pointless after two matches, raising early questions for Marco Silva’s side.
Leeds United stayed unbeaten with a 1-1 draw at home to Brentford. Kevin Schade’s flick gave the visitors an early lead before Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s header salvaged a point for Leeds.
Sunday’s four matches produced eighteen goals in total, with only Manchester City and Hull City still holding perfect records after two rounds. Defensive frailty appears to be a wider trend early this season, not just a bottom-of-the-table issue.
The round concludes Monday night when Aston Villa host Arsenal, with the reigning champions looking to keep their unbeaten start intact.
