Hull Stun Manchester United With Statement Opening-Day Win
Newly promoted Hull City beat Manchester United 2-0 at the MKM Stadium, with first-half goals from Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy securing a memorable Premier League return.
Hull make a fast start
Hull City marked their return to the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the MKM Stadium.
Semi Ajayi scored from close range in the 17th minute before Nobel Mendy headed in a second in the 38th, giving the newly promoted side a two-goal lead at half-time.
Ajayi punishes United
Manchester United made a bright start and Bryan Mbeumo tested Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis with a first-half half-volley.
However, Hull grew into the contest and took the lead after United failed to deal with pressure in their own area. Ajayi reacted quickest to poke the ball home and give the hosts a 17th-minute advantage.
Mendy doubles the lead
Hull continued to unsettle United with their physicality and direct approach. Mendy then powered in a header in the 38th minute, leaving goalkeeper Senne Lammens unable to prevent the second goal.
The Tigers went into the interval 2-0 ahead, with United facing a major task in the second half.
Rashford return cannot spark response
Michael Carrick introduced Marcus Rashford at half-time for his first competitive Manchester United appearance in 618 days, replacing Patrick Dorgu.
The visitors could not convert that change into a comeback. Mbeumo produced United’s clearest second-half opportunity in the 78th minute, but Tzolakis saved his effort and preserved Hull’s clean sheet.
United had little answer
Hull remained organised and composed after the interval, restricting United’s attacking threat and seeing out a notable win.
The result ends Manchester United’s unbeaten record against Hull in Premier League meetings. Before this game, Hull had not won any of their previous 10 top-flight matches against United, drawing two and losing eight.
Photo: X-@brfootball