Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League record for most assists in a season as Manchester United secured third place with a controversial 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.
Match Summary
Luke Shaw opened the scoring for United in the sixth minute, but Forest equalised through Morato early in the second half. Matheus Cunha restored United's lead with a contentious goal that survived a VAR check for handball, before Bryan Mbeumo made it 3-1 with a finish set up by Fernandes's 20th assist of the season. Morgan Gibbs-White pulled one back for Forest with a stunning improvised finish, but United held on for the win.
Key Moments
- 6' - Shaw scores for United
- 54' - Morato equalises for Forest
- 56' - Cunha scores controversial goal
- 76' - Mbeumo makes it 3-1
- 79' - Gibbs-White reduces deficit
Fernandes's assist means he now shares the all-time record of 20 assists in a Premier League season with Thierry Henry (2002-03) and Kevin De Bruyne (2019-20). The Portuguese midfielder expressed his delight after the match, telling Sky Sports: "Everyone knew that was important. I'm very happy, but more than that, I'm happy for the win."
The victory leaves United third in the table with 68 points, while Forest remain 16th on 43 points. The game was marred by controversy over Cunha's goal, with replays showing Mbeumo controlled the ball with his arm in the build-up. VAR reviewed the incident but upheld the on-field decision, prompting criticism from fans and pundits.
Nottingham Forest pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but United's defence held firm, with goalkeeper Lammens making several crucial saves. The result means United have secured a top-four finish, while Forest's survival hopes remain alive as they sit three points above the relegation zone with one game remaining.
