Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi scored the opening goal and helped Hull City keep a clean sheet as they stunned Manchester United 2-0 in their English Premier League (EPL) clash at the MKM Stadium on Saturday.

In the opening EPL match of the new season for both sides, Hull City produced a spirited display, scoring twice in the first half against a lethargic Manchester United side.

Ajayi, 32, put Hull City ahead in the 17th minute with a close-range finish into an empty net after a knockdown from a corner fell into his path. It was his third EPL goal and his first in five years.

Nobel Mendy doubled the hosts’ advantage in the 38th minute, converting a free-kick delivery to give Hull City a 2-0 lead at the break.

Manchester United struggled to find a way back into the game after the interval, as Hull City defended resolutely to secure a historic victory.

The result marked Hull City’s first-ever win over Manchester United in the EPL and their first victory against the Red Devils in any competition in 52 years.

For Manchester United, it was their first defeat on the opening day of an EPL season since 2021. It also ended their unbeaten run against newly promoted sides, with the loss their first in 13 EPL matches against such teams.