MAN UNITED STUN MAN CITY TO CLAIM 13TH FA CUP TITLE
In a thrilling showdown at Wembley, Manchester United emerged victorious, securing their 13th FA Cup trophy after an intense battle against Manchester City. The match, which is believed to be Erik ten Hag’s final game as manager, saw United’s players deliver a passionate performance, avenging last year’s painful defeat.
The tension surrounding Ten Hag’s future added an extra layer of excitement to the 143rd cup final, a repeat of the previous all-Manchester clash. United’s players showcased their loyalty to their manager with a superb display in the first half. It was a moment of defensive confusion between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol that allowed Alejandro Garnacho to capitalize and shock the 2023 winners with a goal in the 30th minute.
United’s lead was further extended thanks to an exceptional assist from Bruno Fernandes, which was converted into a goal by Kobbie Mainoo. However, City, aiming for a historic double-double, fought back in the second half. Erling Haaland came close to equalizing as his shot hit the crossbar, and Julian Alvarez missed a golden opportunity after replacing Kevin De Bruyne.
Despite Jeremy Doku’s late goal, the Red Devils stood strong, defying the odds and clinching the trophy for the 13th time in their history. This victory denied Pep Guardiola and his team their second piece of silverware this season. As a result, United secured a place in next year’s Europa League, while Chelsea dropped down to the Europa Conference League, and Newcastle missed out on European competition altogether in the upcoming season.
The pre-match discussions were dominated by speculation surrounding Ten Hag’s future (Picture: Getty)
The game started with an early controversy as Lisandro Martinez barged into Haaland inside the first minute, prompting the Norwegian striker to appeal for a penalty. However, after a VAR review, the challenge went unnoticed, much to the relief of United fans.
United’s first significant chance came in the ninth minute when Bruno Fernandes set up Garnacho on the right flank. However, the resulting shot lacked power and failed to trouble Ortega in City’s goal. As the match progressed, United grew in confidence, and Ortega took a risky decision to play out from the back. Fortunately for City, Mateo Kovacic intervened, preventing Scott McTominay from capitalizing on the opportunity.
It was Diogo Dalot, named United’s Players’ Player of the Year, who caused chaos in City’s defense with a well-placed through ball in the 30th minute. Gvardiol and Ortega’s miscommunication allowed Garnacho to break free and calmly slot the ball into an empty net, breaking the deadlock and giving United the lead.
Manchester United produced a stunning upset against their rivals, Manchester City, in a thrilling match at Wembley. The scoring was opened by Garnacho in the 30th minute, but his goal was later disallowed due to an offside in the build-up. Undeterred, United continued to press and just before halftime, Garnacho assisted Fernandes, who then found Mainoo with a brilliant pass. The 19-year-old midfielder confidently scored his fifth goal of the season, doubling United’s lead and sending their supporters into a frenzy.
In the second half, City made a substitution, bringing on Doku for Kovacic, which seemed to ignite their performance. Haaland struck a powerful shot that hit the crossbar, showing City’s determination to come back. Onana, United’s goalkeeper, made a remarkable save to deny a long-range effort from Walker. City had a chance to reduce the deficit when Alvarez came on for De Bruyne, but he disappointingly missed the target.
Garnacho continued to threaten City’s defense, forcing Ortega to make a save. Onana also made a crucial save, but it was ruled offside by the referee. As the match seemed to be heading towards a victory for United, Doku had other plans. He skillfully cut inside and beat Onana at his near post, giving City a glimmer of hope. However, United remained resilient and ended their disappointing season on a high note by securing the win.
