Fulham sent Manchester United out of the FA Cup, defeating the defending champions 4-2 on penalties.
Man United was given a lifeline to stay in the FA Cup after Bruno Fernandes’ equalizer in the second half canceled out Calvin Bassey’s header. However, the Red Devils were later rattled by the London club, who forced the game into a penalty shootout before punishing the hosts.
Joshua Zirkzee, despite his outstanding performance, missed his spot kick, causing United exit from the tournament. Victor Lindelof, who had resumed full action after an injury break also lost from the spot kick.
The first half was reminiscent of past games, with the Red Devils conceding just before the 45-minute mark. Nigerian defender, Calvin Bassey headed home Andreas Pereira’s corner kick to give the Cottage boys the lead.
Earlier, Fulham had made a snapshot attempt in the 35th minute, but Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana sloppily saved Pereira’s shot.
Meanwhile, United had the first attempt on goal at Old Trafford, as the Red Devils hope to open the scoring. Bruno Fernandes’ 12th-minute shot from Manuel Ugarte’s pass was saved by Bernd Leno. Five minutes later, Eriksen’s shot troubled Leno, but the visitors made a comeback into the game at the half-hour mark.
Calvin Bassey scored a header from a loose flick by Muniz, who had earlier converted Andreas Pereira’s corner kick. The goal was the last action of the first half.
In the 52nd minute, Amorim made a double change, replacing Leny Yoro and Ugarte with Alejandro Garnacho and Victor Lindelof, respectively. Five minutes later, Noussair Mazraoui’s header was saved by Leno.
United eventually got an equalizer in the 71st minute from Bruno Fernandes’ solo shot off Diogo Dalot’s cross. However, United youngster Chido Obi failed to complete the comeback at the end of the second half after missing two goal-scoring chances.
The game extended into extra time, with both sides combatively seeking a winner. During extra time, Garnacho and Zirkzee’s attempts were neutralized, and Ryan Sessegnon forced Onana to make a critical save.
In the penalty shootout, both Zirkzee and Victor Lindelof missed their shots, ultimately giving away the title defense at Old Trafford.
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