EPL: Fernandes Hat-Trick Inspires Man Utd Rout Of Ipswich

Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as Manchester United recovered from an early setback to thrash Ipswich Town 5-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The victory gave Michael Carrick’s side their first Premier League win of the season after United suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against newly promoted Hull City on the opening weekend.

Ipswich made a strong start and took the lead in the 29th minute through Leif Davis. Abdul Fatawu created the opening after beating Luke Shaw before Davis finished the move with a powerful strike.

United responded before half-time through their captain. Fernandes capitalised after Ipswich midfielder Marcelino Núñez slipped, with Matheus Cunha winning possession and setting up the Portuguese midfielder to fire into the net in the 40th minute.

The hosts completed their comeback shortly after the restart when Harry Maguire’s effort was deflected into his own net by Ipswich defender Jacob Greaves in the 56th minute.

Fernandes then extended United’s advantage from the penalty spot five minutes later after Cunha was brought down inside the area.

The Portugal international completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute, calmly finishing from close range to put Manchester United 4-1 ahead.

Fernandes was involved again when United scored their fifth goal. The captain released Bryan Mbeumo, who produced a composed finish over the advancing Ipswich goalkeeper in the 82nd minute.

Ipswich managed to reduce the deficit in stoppage time through substitute Chuba Akpom, but the late goal could not change the outcome.

Fernandes’ performance was particularly significant after he was recently named the Premier League’s PFA Player of the Year for the 2025/26 season. The midfielder once again demonstrated his importance to United, contributing three goals and an assist.

Marcus Rashford also returned to the Manchester United starting lineup at Old Trafford, making his first home start for the club in around 90 weeks.

The result provides a major boost for Carrick after the disappointing opening-day defeat and gives United renewed confidence heading into the early stages of the campaign.

However, the defensive problems exposed against Ipswich will remain a concern, particularly after the visitors created several opportunities before United established control.

For Ipswich, the defeat represents another difficult result against a major opponent, despite an encouraging opening half-hour.

Manchester United will now look to build momentum from their first league victory, with Fernandes once again emerging as the decisive figure in their attack.