Manchester United defied the odds to beat Manchester City 2-1 and lift the FA Cup, with a display that may have manager Erik ten Hag’s swansong.
Teenage sensations Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were the heroes, scoring in the first half to stun the Premier League champions and secure United’s 13th FA Cup triumph.
Despite a second-half siege from City, with a late goal by Jeremy Doku setting up a thrilling finale, United held on for their first FA Cup victory in eight years.
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| Manchester United celebrate their FA Cup triumph, with the trophy held high by Bruno Fernandes. Photo: Reuters |
This victory was even sweeter given the speculation surrounding Ten Hag’s future and United’s poor Premier League form, finishing eighth while City claimed their fourth consecutive title.
United’s opening goal came from a defensive error by City, with Garnacho pouncing on a misplaced header to give them the lead. Kobbie Mainoo then doubled the lead with a slick finish, assisted by Bruno Fernandes.
City improved in the second half, with Erling Haaland hitting the crossbar, but it wasn’t until the 87th minute that Doku pulled one back. A tense finale followed, but United’s defense, led by the superb Lisandro Martinez, held firm.
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| Erik ten Hag and Lisandro Martinez celebrate Manchester United’s FA Cup victory. Photo: Reuters |
This match marked the first time since 1885 that the same teams faced each other in consecutive FA Cup finals, and United’s victory is a memorable one, especially given the context of their season.
While Ten Hag’s future remains uncertain, this FA Cup win is a bright spot in a difficult season, and the young stars of United have given the club and its fans something to celebrate.
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| Lisandro Martinez and Marcus Rashford celebrate Manchester United’s victory. Photo: Reuters |
Garnacho, one of the stand-out performers this season, was a constant threat, and his movement caused problems for City’s defense throughout the match.
United’s first goal came from a long ball that should have been dealt with by City’s defense, but Garnacho’s persistence paid off, giving them the lead.
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| Kobbie Mainoo slots the ball past the keeper to score Manchester United’s second goal. Photo: Reuters |
The second goal was a well-worked team effort, with Garnacho, Fernandes, and Mainoo combining to devastating effect, leaving City reeling.
City fought back in the second half, with Haaland and substitute Doku causing problems, but United’s defense, including the impressive Andre Onana in goal, stood firm.
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| Manchester City fans show their support during the FA Cup final. Photo: Reuters |
Despite City’s late push, with Doku scoring to set up a tense finish, United held on for a famous victory, giving their fans a day to remember.
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| Manchester City’s Kyle Walker and Manchester United’s Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes battle for the ball. Photo: Reuters |
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