soccer 22 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Hull City Shocks Manchester United 2-0 in Premier League Opener
Hull City made a triumphant return to the Premier League after a nine-year hiatus, securing a significant 2-0 victory against Manchester United. The newly promoted side's early goals proved decisive, leaving United struggling to find their rhythm. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/hull-city-stun-manchester-united-2-0-on-premier-league-return-5567478
Hull City delivered a statement performance on their return to the Premier League, overcoming Manchester United with a convincing 2-0 win.
The promoted side demonstrated their readiness for top-flight competition from the outset. Their breakthrough came in the 17th minute when Semi Ajayi capitalized on a rebound from a corner, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Hull’s effectiveness from set-pieces struck again just before halftime. Regan Slater’s expertly curled free-kick found Nobel Mendy, who rose above the United defense to head the ball home, doubling Hull’s lead and igniting the MKM Stadium crowd.
Manchester United, entering the match with a strong record against newly promoted teams in season openers, found themselves unable to mount a significant response. Despite the introduction of Marcus Rashford, returning for his first club appearance since December 2024, United struggled to create clear scoring opportunities.
Manager Michael Carrick had instilled renewed confidence in the United squad last season, leading them to a third-place finish. However, his team’s attacking prowess was stifled by Hull’s resolute defense.
United’s best chance to pull a goal back came late in the game, but Bryan Mbeumo’s effort was denied by Hull’s goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis. The Hull defense largely contained the visitors, ensuring a memorable start to their Premier League campaign.