Benjamin Sesko Scores Dramatic 94th-Minute Winner Against Fulham
Manchester, 1 February 2026
The 22-year-old Slovenian striker came off the bench to secure Manchester United’s third consecutive Premier League victory under Michael Carrick, converting a Bruno Fernandes pass in stoppage time at Old Trafford. The thrilling encounter saw United lead 2-0 through Casemiro and Matheus Cunha before Fulham fought back to level through Raul Jimenez and Kevin, setting up a dramatic finale that left the Stretford End celebrating wildly.
VAR Controversy Sets the Stage for United’s Opening Goal
The match’s pivotal moment came early when referee John Brooks initially awarded Manchester United a penalty for what appeared to be a foul by Jorge Cuenca on Matheus Cunha [1][2]. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned and converted into a free-kick for United, with officials determining that Cuenca had committed a shirt pull on Cunha rather than a tackle worthy of a penalty [1][2]. From the resulting free-kick, Casemiro capitalised with a headed goal from Bruno Fernandes’s delivery, marking his fifth goal of the season [1]. The controversial decision left Fulham manager Marco Silva fuming, who described it as a “horrendous, terrible decision” and was subsequently booked for his protests [2][7].
Cunha Doubles United’s Advantage as Fulham Regroup
Matheus Cunha, who had returned to the starting line-up replacing the injured Patrick Dorgu, doubled Manchester United’s advantage in the second half on 31st January 2026 [1][7]. The Brazilian’s goal appeared to put United in comfortable control of the match, building on their early momentum from Casemiro’s opener [1]. However, Fulham’s resilience would soon be tested as they faced the prospect of their eighth defeat in what has been a challenging campaign [1]. The visitors had shown glimpses of quality throughout the match, with several players including Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze creating opportunities that would prove crucial as the game wore on [1].
Fulham’s Spirited Comeback Levels the Match
Fulham’s fightback began in earnest when Raul Jimenez converted a penalty in the 85th minute to reduce the deficit to 2-1 [1][7]. The Mexican striker’s spot-kick gave the visitors renewed hope and sparked scenes of celebration amongst the travelling supporters [7]. The comeback was completed when Kevin found the equaliser to make it 2-2, setting up a grandstand finish at Old Trafford [1][7]. The goals came after VAR had earlier disallowed a Fulham effort due to Samuel Chukwueze being fractionally offside, adding to the drama of an already eventful encounter [7]. With eight minutes of stoppage time announced, both sides sensed an opportunity to claim all three points in what had transformed from a comfortable United victory into a thrilling contest.
Sesko’s Dream Debut Goal Secures Victory for Carrick’s Men
Benjamin Sesko’s moment of magic arrived in the 94th minute when the 22-year-old Slovenian striker, who had been introduced from the substitutes’ bench, latched onto a Bruno Fernandes pass to score his first goal for Manchester United [2]. The strike, which came in his seventh appearance across all competitions, was particularly significant as it was scored in front of the Stretford End, fulfilling what interim manager Michael Carrick described as “what you dream of” [2]. Carrick, who was appointed head coach last month, praised Sesko as a “big talent” and expressed his delight at the young forward’s breakthrough moment [2]. The victory marked Manchester United’s third consecutive Premier League win under Carrick’s temporary leadership, matching Ruben Amorim’s longest winning streak at the club [1]. The result moves United into the top four and leaves them five points off third place in the Premier League table, whilst Fulham drop to eighth position [1]. Bruno Fernandes was named Player of the Match for his influential performance, which included the decisive assist for Sesko’s winner [1].