Man United Dramatic FA Cup Victory : The FA Cup witnessed high drama at Old Trafford as Manchester United secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Leicester City in the fourth round, thanks to Harry Maguire’s contentious stoppage-time winner against his former club.
Match Overview
In a pulsating encounter at the Theatre of Dreams, United demonstrated their resilience by overcoming an early deficit. Bobby De Cordova-Reid put Leicester ahead in the 42nd minute, before Joshua Zirkzee equalized for United in the 68th minute. The drama reached its peak when Harry Maguire headed home what appeared to be an offside winner in the 93rd minute, but with no VAR in operation at this stage of the competition, the goal stood.
Key Moments
The match unfolded in dramatic fashion:
- 42′: Bobby De Cordova-Reid gives Leicester the lead
- 68′: Joshua Zirkzee equalizes for United
- 93′: Harry Maguire scores controversial winner
Tactical Analysis
Ruben Amorim’s United struggled in the first half, lacking creativity and intensity. The introduction of Alejandro Garnacho at halftime for Patrick Dorgu proved decisive, injecting much-needed energy into United’s attack. Leicester, under Ruud van Nistelrooy, showed tactical discipline but ultimately couldn’t prevent United’s late surge.
Team Performances
Manchester United:
- André Onana made crucial saves
- Bruno Fernandes provided excellent set-piece delivery
- Garnacho’s impact from the bench was significant
- Maguire delivered the decisive moment
Leicester City:
- Bilal El Khannouss impressed with creative play
- Wilfred Ndidi controlled midfield
- Defense held firm until final moments
- Mads Hermansen performed well in goal
Match Statistics
United dominated possession:
- Possession: United 71% – Leicester 29%
- Shots: United 19 (8 on target) – Leicester 7 (4 on target)
- Corners: United 11 – Leicester 3
- Pass Accuracy: United 88% – Leicester 72%
VAR Controversy
The absence of VAR at this stage of the FA Cup proved crucial, as Maguire appeared to be in an offside position for the winning goal. Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy expressed his frustration post-match, stating: “We were not defeated in Fergie time, we are defeated in offside time.”
Impact on Competition
The victory maintains United’s strong FA Cup record:
- Reached last two finals
- Advanced past fourth round for 10th time in 11 seasons
- Holders remain in contention for trophy defense
Man United vs Leicester City Q&A
Q: Why wasn’t VAR used for Maguire’s goal?
A: VAR is only implemented from the fifth round onwards in this season’s FA Cup.
Q: How significant is this win for United?
A: Crucial victory keeps their trophy hopes alive amid struggling league form.
Q: What’s next for both teams?
A: United await Monday’s fifth-round draw, while Leicester return to their Premier League relegation battle.The dramatic victory keeps United’s hopes of defending their FA Cup crown alive, though questions about the controversial winner will linger. For Leicester, it’s a bitter pill to swallow as they return to their league campaign. The match showcased both the magic and controversy that makes the FA Cup special, particularly with the absence of VAR in the earlier rounds.As United progress to the fifth round, they’ll hope this victory can spark improved form across all competitions. Meanwhile, Leicester must quickly regroup as they focus on their Premier League survival battle. The FA Cup continues to deliver drama, and this match will be remembered as another classic in the competition’s rich history.