Fernandes, Sesko fire Manchester United to third

Manchester United climbed to third in the Premier League after coming from behind to beat Crystal Palace 2-1 on Sunday.

Despite a sluggish display for much of the contest, United capitalised on a second-half red card for Maxence Lacroix, with Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko turning the game around.

The result lifts Michael Carrick’s side above Aston Villa and strengthens their bid for Champions League qualification.

Palace strike early

Palace made a fast start and took the lead inside four minutes. Lacroix rose above Leny Yoro to head home from a corner.

Ismaila Sarr nearly doubled the advantage soon after but fired straight at Senne Lammens.

United struggled to respond, creating little until late in the first half when Sesko and Casemiro missed headed chances and Dean Henderson tipped over a Fernandes free-kick.

Red card changes the encounter

The turning point came 10 minutes after the interval when Lacroix was penalised for pulling back Matheus Cunha in the penalty area.

Following VAR review, the defender was sent off and Fernandes converted from the spot to level the score.

Fernandes then delivered the decisive contribution, producing a precise cross for Sesko to head past Henderson. The goal marked Sesko’s sixth in seven appearances.

United pressed for a third, with Cunha and substitute Amad Diallo testing Henderson, but Palace remained competitive despite their numerical disadvantage.

The visitors could not find an equaliser, and United held on to secure three points that move them into the top three as the race for European qualification intensifies.