Premier League
Hull City 2-0 Manchester United: Ajayi and Mendy seal stunning opening-day upset at MKM Stadium
Hull City handed newly-managed Manchester United a surprise defeat on the opening weekend of the Premier League.
Hull City earned a memorable opening-day victory over visitors Manchester United at the MKM Stadium, with second-half goals from Sam Ajayi and Nicolas Mendy securing all three points in what was a frustrating afternoon for the Red Devils.
The hosts got off to a dream start inside the opening 20 minutes. In the 17th minute, Hull City capitalised on sustained pressure as Sam Ajayi slotted home a well-worked move to send the home crowd into raptures. The goal set the tone for a composed first-half display from the Tigers.
Manchester United struggled to find their rhythm against Hull City’s disciplined 5-4-1 setup under Sergej Jakirovic. Their passing lacked precision, and the visitors were repeatedly caught on the counter. A yellow card for P. Dorgu in the 34th minute summed up a sluggish start from the guests.
Hull City doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Nicolas Mendy found the back of the net, with Ryan Slater providing the assist. The goal was a devastating strike that left United goalkeeper scrambling, and it effectively ended any realistic hopes of a comeback.
The first half ended 2-0 to Hull City, leaving Michael Carrick’s side with a mountain to climb. Despite making changes in personnel and approach, United could not break down a resolute Hull defence in the second half.
Manchester United showed more urgency after the break, but Hull City’s organisation held firm. Luke Shaw and Bruno Fernandes tried to spark something for the visitors, but clear chances were few and far between.
In the dying moments of stoppage time, Hull City’s Liam Millar was shown a yellow card, adding further frustration for the home side in an already comfortable position. The referee, Darren England, brought the game to a close shortly after.
The result leaves both sides with zero points from the opening fixture. Hull City sit 13th in the early Premier League table, while Manchester United trail in 8th place. For now, the Tigers can celebrate a landmark win to kickstart their campaign under Jakirovic.