Manchester United clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Burnley on August 31, 2025, at Old Trafford, securing their first Premier League win of the season.
Bruno Fernandes scored a controversial 97th-minute penalty after a VAR review, turning the game on its head.
The match featured two Burnley equalizers, a disallowed goal, and strong fan support for manager Ruben Amorim, who faced mounting pressure after a midweek Carabao Cup loss.
Fans across Europe and the UK celebrated the relief as of 10:45 AM IST today, September 1, 2025.
Match Highlights and Goals
United started strongly, dominating possession but struggling to convert chances.
They took the lead in the 27th minute through an own goal by Burnley’s Josh Cullen, who deflected Casemiro’s header off the crossbar past Martin Dubravka.
Burnley leveled in the 55th minute when Lyle Foster flicked in Jacob Bruun Larsen’s cross, but celebrations were short-lived—a VAR check ruled it offside due to Foster’s arm being ahead of Diogo Dalot.
Bryan Mbeumo restored United’s advantage in the 57th minute, slamming home after Joshua Zirkzee’s flick-on from Altay Bayindir’s long kick.
Burnley fought back again in the 66th minute, with Jaidon Anthony tapping in from close range after a long throw by Kyle Walker.
The game seemed headed for a draw until stoppage time, when Anthony grabbed Amad Diallo’s shirt in the box.
Referee Sam Barrott initially waved play on, but VAR Stuart Attwell prompted a four-minute review, awarding the penalty.
Fernandes converted coolly, sending Old Trafford into ecstasy. BBC Sport noted United’s 61% possession and 25 shots, but Burnley’s resilience kept it close.
Stretford End Gesture for Amorim
Before kickoff, the Stretford End showed unwavering support for Amorim with banners reading “The good days are coming” and a photo of him celebrating a past goal.
Fans sang “He’ll turn the Reds around” to the tune of Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero.”
This gesture came amid calls for his sacking after the Grimsby defeat, highlighting the matchgoing fans’ loyalty despite broader concerns.
The Manchester Evening News described it as a “rollercoaster” for Amorim, who buried his head in his hands during tense moments but celebrated wildly at the end.
Key Players and Reactions
Amad Diallo impressed with his movement, drawing the penalty and earning praise from Steph Houghton on BBC: “His impact in the box was brilliant.”
Mbeumo shone with his goal, while Fernandes’ composure under pressure proved decisive.
For Burnley, Anthony turned hero to villain, scoring but conceding the spot-kick.
Scott Parker fumed at VAR: “It’s quadruple checking everything—on the field, the ref didn’t give it, then a fella 200 miles away decides.”
He also slammed the disallowed goal: “We’re months away from not celebrating at all.” Amorim expressed relief: “I love my players again after their effort.”
The win lifts United to 16th with four points from three games, while Burnley stays 11th with three.
Fan Reactions on X
Social media lit up with reactions. One fan tweeted, “Man Utd’s late penalty drama vs Burnley—VAR saves Amorim’s job!”
Another posted, “Stretford End backing Amorim—United fights back in epic win!”, capturing the excitement.
What’s Next?
United heads into the international break on a high, facing Manchester City on September 14.
Burnley hosts Sunderland on September 13.
The match underscores VAR debates and Amorim’s resilience, promising more Premier League drama.
Stay tuned for updates!