Manchester United are still searching for their first win of the Premier League season after being held to a 1-1 draw by Fulham at Craven Cottage.
United took the lead through a Rodrigo Muniz own goal but failed to capitalise, with Bruno Fernandes missing a first-half penalty and substitute Emile Smith Rowe striking an equaliser for Fulham. Both sides are yet to taste victory this campaign, leaving pressure on Rúben Amorim and Marco Silva.
First Half — Fernandes Blasts Over as Missed Chances Mount
United started brightly, with Matheus Cunha testing the Fulham back line early on. Their big chance arrived from the penalty spot, but captain Bruno Fernandes fired over, wasting the chance to put his side ahead.
Fulham looked unsettled in possession yet carried a threat in transition, with United’s back line stretched more than once. The goalless scoreline at the interval didn’t reflect a half where both teams created opportunities.
United Lead Through Own Goal
After the break, United finally made the breakthrough. Teenage centre-back Leny Yoro thought he had grabbed his first Premier League goal, but replays showed the final touch came off Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz for an own goal.
Fulham boss Marco Silva was furious, protesting that there had been a push in the build-up, but the goal stood and United had their long-awaited opener.
Smith Rowe Strikes Back for Fulham
The lead lasted just minutes. Alex Iwobi pounced on Diogo Dalot’s loose control and played in Emile Smith Rowe, who coolly slotted home to make it 1-1.
The equaliser lifted the home crowd and left United on the back foot for the closing stages, with Amorim’s side forced to settle for a point.
Match Stats — Fulham vs Manchester United
| Stat | Fulham | Man Utd |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 51.7% | 48.3% |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.83 | 1.63 |
| Total Shots | 14 | 10 |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 3 |
| Touches in Opposition Box | 37 | 26 |
| Corners | 9 | 6 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 10 |
source: BBC match data – 24 August 2025
The stats reflect Fulham’s greater territory and attacking presence, with more touches in United’s box (37–26) and more corners. United, however, had the game’s biggest missed chance — Fernandes’ penalty.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
“United’s lack of ruthlessness is worrying. Fernandes’ penalty summed up their problems — they’re creating but not finishing, and that keeps opponents alive.”
“Smith Rowe’s instant impact underlines Fulham’s clever recruitment. His energy and composure lifted the side, and he could become central to Silva’s plans this season.”
Key Insights
- Bruno Fernandes missed a first-half penalty for United.
- Rodrigo Muniz’s own goal put United ahead.
- Emile Smith Rowe equaliser.
- Fulham edged possession (51.7%) and xG (1.83–1.63).
- Both sides remain winless after two league matches.
What’s Next?
Fulham head into their next fixture with two draws from two, Silva pleased with their resilience but demanding sharper defending. Smith Rowe’s debut goal could give him a starting role next week.
United and Rúben Amorim remain under scrutiny. With Fernandes misfiring and the team winless, the pressure is building ahead of their first home game at Old Trafford.
Should United stick with Bruno Fernandes as penalty taker after his latest miss?
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