The hosts looked destined for another disappointing result when Roma struck twice in a six-minute spell during the first half. Matias Soule broke the deadlock before Donyell Malen converted from the penalty spot, leaving United head coach Michael Carrick seemingly facing an uncertain future.

The visitors' goals also intensified unrest among the home supporters, with green tennis balls thrown onto the pitch in protest against the club's ownership. Green and gold balloons were released before kick-off, while chants were directed towards the Glazer family, minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director of football Jason Wilcox.

United's response began when captain Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, having to retake the spot-kick after an infringement by a Roma player. Bryan Mbeumo subsequently struck both posts before Matheus Cunha took advantage of Leonardo Balerdi's defensive mistake to restore parity.

The Brazilian then completed the turnaround four minutes before full-time, unleashing a powerful finish from a tight angle to put United ahead for the first time.

However, Cunha's evening ended prematurely when he received a second yellow card in stoppage time. United also suffered an injury setback as £70 million midfielder Carlos Baleba picked up a hamstring problem expected to keep him out for a period.

Despite Cunha's dismissal, United resisted Roma's late pressure to secure a dramatic victory in front of a raucous Old Trafford crowd.

"It was a good night. A lot of credit to the players, for starters, showing that character and that quality when we needed it, and the supporters," Carrick said after the game, as quoted by the club's official website.

"This place does incredible things. There's magic here and we spoke about it at half-time.

"I thought we grew into it in the first half, actually, after giving the goals away too easily. We spoke at half-time about how this place can change, and it only takes one moment. The boys made the most of every little opportunity, really, and were fantastic in the end."

Steve Barker in awe of current Stellenbosch squad