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Defending champions United crash out in fifth round as Fulham triumph 4-3 on penalties; Bruno Fernandes’ goal not enough to save struggling side
Manchester United’s disappointing season got even worse as they were knocked out of the FA Cup in the fifth round by Fulham in a penalty shoot-out on Sunday. The match at Old Trafford ended 1-1 after extra time, with Calvin Bassey scoring for Fulham in the first half and Bruno Fernandes equalizing for United. However, in the penalty shoot-out, Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno made two crucial saves, helping his team win 4-3.
The result was another blow for United, who were booed off at halftime. Last season, they won the FA Cup by defeating Manchester City in the final, but this time, they won’t even reach Wembley. Their only remaining chance for a trophy this season is in the Europa League.
United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, admitted the loss was tough to take. He said the team had good chances but missed out in the penalty shoot-out. Despite their struggles, he insisted the long-term goal is to win the Premier League, even though it may take time.
It has been a difficult period for United, with off-field issues also affecting the club. They recently announced 200 job cuts, and their performances in the league have been poor, including a draw against Everton and a narrow win over Ipswich. Amorim, who took over in November after Erik ten Hag was sacked, is under increasing pressure.
The game started poorly for United, as they struggled to create chances. Rasmus Hojlund missed a shot after a cross from Christian Eriksen, and Eriksen himself had a shot saved by Leno. Fans at Old Trafford expressed their frustration, chanting against the club’s owners and criticizing ticket price increases.
Fulham took the lead just before halftime when Andreas Pereira’s corner was flicked on, and Bassey reacted quickest to head the ball into the net. United’s defending at set-pieces has been a problem all season, and it cost them again.
Amorim kept Alejandro Garnacho on the bench for the first 53 minutes after the winger’s recent outburst when he was substituted against Ipswich. Garnacho had stormed off to the dressing room in frustration, but the issue was reportedly resolved after he agreed to take his teammates out for dinner. When he was finally brought on, he was greeted with cheers, but his impact on the game was minimal.
Bruno Fernandes gave United hope when he equalized in the 71st minute, finishing well from a Diogo Dalot cross. However, unlike their recent comebacks against Ipswich and Everton, United could not find a way to win this time.
In stoppage time, United goalkeeper Andre Onana made a crucial save to deny Emile Smith Rowe, forcing the game into extra time. The additional 30 minutes were tense, with few clear chances. Chido Obi came close for United, while Ryan Sessegnon forced a save from Onana.
In the penalty shoot-out, Fulham held their nerve, scoring all four of their penalties. Meanwhile, United’s Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee missed their attempts, allowing Fulham to secure a famous victory.
With this loss, United now turn their attention to the Europa League, where they face Real Sociedad in the last 16. They also have a crucial Premier League match against Arsenal coming up. However, their struggles continue, and questions remain over their future under Amorim.