Manchester United vs Sabah FK

Manchester United host Champions League debutants Sabah FK at Old Trafford, a low-key assignment that still matters after a shaky start left United 10th in the Premier League. For Sabah, simply reaching this stage is a landmark achievement after a gruelling playoff campaign. United, now under Michael Carrick, lost their opener 2-0 to Hull City before hitting back with a 5-2 win over Ipswich, sparked by a hat-trick from captain Bruno Fernandes and an assist for Bryan Mbeumo. Sabah reached the league phase by beating Hapoel Be'er Sheva 5-2 in extra time to overturn a first-leg deficit, guided by Lithuanian coach Valdas Dambrauskas off the back of their maiden Azerbaijan Premier League title. The sides have never met before. The gap in experience and the Old Trafford factor make Manchester United clear favourites, though Sabah's underdog run suggests they won't be overawed. Our prediction: 4-0