By Kate Gaduna
Cameroon international Carlos Baleba made his first start for Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night, but the midfielder could not prevent the English side from suffering a 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The 22-year-old was named in Michael Carrick’s starting line-up for United’s second Champions League match of the campaign, marking another milestone in his early days at the club following his summer move from Brighton & Hove Albion. However, his first start in Europe’s premier club competition ended in disappointment as Atlético secured their first victory of the league phase.
United made the worst possible start, falling behind inside the opening minute when Pablo Barrios finished a move initiated by Álex Baena. The visitors struggled to recover from the early setback, although Bryan Mbeumo threatened as they searched for an equaliser. Atlético appeared to have doubled their advantage before half-time through Johnny Cardoso, but a VAR review ruled out the goal for handball in the build-up.
Baleba operated in midfield alongside fellow summer signing Andrey Santos as Carrick made five changes to the side that drew with Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. The former Brighton midfielder remained on the pitch until the 66th minute, when he was replaced by Mason Mount as United continued their search for a way back into the contest.
United’s hopes of salvaging a result suffered another blow in the 74th minute when defender Leny Yoro was sent off following a VAR review for a foul on Jonathan David. Atlético took advantage of their numerical superiority five minutes later, with Ademola Lookman converting from close range after goalkeeper Senne Lammens had saved David’s initial effort.
The defeat represents another frustrating setback for United, who were unable to recover from their early concession before Yoro’s dismissal made their task even more difficult. For Baleba, the experience offers an opportunity to learn from his first Champions League start as he seeks to establish himself in Carrick’s midfield.
United will turn their attention to domestic action against Leeds United before travelling to Italy for their next Champions League assignment against Como on October 21. Baleba will hope to retain his place as the English side look to respond to the defeat and regain consistency in the weeks ahead.
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