Semi Ajayi scored Hull City’s opening goal in its 2–0 win over Manchester United during the 2026–27 Premier League opening weekend.
Ajayi struck in the 17th minute at MKM Stadium, giving Hull an early lead in the first Saturday match of the season. Nobel Mendy later headed a second goal before half-time, completing a memorable victory for the newly promoted club.
The goal followed a near miss involving Oli McBurnie. Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens tipped McBurnie’s shot onto the post, and Ajayi reacted quickest to finish the rebound. McBurnie initially celebrated as though he had scored, but the official goal went to Ajayi.
Hull’s victory was significant because it was the club’s first top-flight win over Manchester United. It also came on Hull’s return to the Premier League after a nine-year absence. The club had gained promotion through the Championship play-offs.
A likely confusion is assigning the first goal to Mendy, because he scored the second and his debut goal was also important. Ajayi, however, opened the scoring.