Manchester United ripped up the script with first-half goals by Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, leading to a victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
In what might be Erik ten Hag’s last game as United’s manager, the team delivered their best performance of the season, securing a trophy despite a tumultuous 2023-24 season. On Saturday, United claimed the FA Cup with a 2-1 win against Manchester City.
A few days after winning their fourth consecutive Premier League championship, the FA Cup seems like the icing on top of another successful season for City. The race may have come down to the wire, but second-place Arsenal could never contest the sense of inevitability that comes with City victories, and that is no different going into Saturday’s FA Cup final. With a star-studded lineup that features Premier League player of the season Phil Foden and the unstoppable Rodri, they are big favorites to win the title for the second year in a row.
The first half was a dream for United, who struck twice. Garnacho took advantage of a mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol to score into an empty net, and Mainoo capped off a remarkable team move for the second goal. André Onana was called into action only once.
City made the second half tense when Jérémy Doku’s shot slipped past Onana’s weak save at the near post in the 87th minute. But United held their ground to secure the win.
This FA Cup victory marks the second trophy during Erik ten Hag’s two-year stint at United, amidst ongoing speculation about his future, with the club already considering replacements.
This is United’s 13th FA Cup title, just one behind Arsenal’s record of 14, and also secures their spot in the Europa League next season.
Players and staff celebrated with Ten Hag on the field after the match, ending a challenging season on a high note, while co-owners Joel and Avram Glazer and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe watched on.
The match mirrored last year’s final, where City emerged victorious, but this time the narrative was different. While City controlled possession in the first half, United’s attacks were more dangerous, leading to Garnacho’s opening goal.
The Argentine winger caused chaos in City’s defense by chasing a deep punt from Diogo Dalot. Although Gvardiol reached the ball first, his header back went over the advancing Ortega, leaving Garnacho to score easily.
United’s second goal stemmed from a fluid attack involving Garnacho, who cut in from the right and passed to Bruno Fernandes. The captain’s immediate no-look pass found Mainoo, who calmly finished past Ortega.
“It’s been a difficult season with many ups and downs. Winning this was our only hope,” said Mainoo. “We knew we had to unite as a team. The preparation for this game was exceptional. We’ve proven we can compete and win.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the FA Cup final?
The match has been played in the new Wembley Stadium since its opening in 2007. From 1923 until 2000, the original Wembley Stadium hosted the FA Cup final every year with the exception of one.
Who won the last FA Cup?
Manchester United defeated Manchester City 2-1 to win the FA Cup, courtesy of goals from Garnacho and Mainoo.
What is the FA Cup?
Domestic English football has an annual knockout tournament known as the Football Association Challenge Cup, or FA Cup. It was the world’s first national football tournament, held in 1871–1872. The Football Association (FA) is the organization that gave it its name.
How to watch the 2024 FA Cup?
Watch Man City vs. Manchester United in the FA Cup Final for free on BBC iPlayer or ITVX. ExpressVPN allows you to access this free streaming service from anywhere in the globe.
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