Fulham Stun Man United in FA Cup Shootout Thriller
In a dramatic FA Cup fifth-round clash at Old Trafford, Fulham knocked out defending champions Manchester United with a nerve-wracking 4-3 penalty shootout victory. It was a night of high drama, tactical battles, and heroic moments, as the Cottagers edged past Erik ten Hag’s side to book their place in the quarter-finals.
Bassey Puts Fulham in Front
Fulham started the game with confidence, pressing high and forcing United into mistakes. Their persistence paid off in the 43rd minute when Calvin Bassey rose highest to meet an Andreas Pereira corner, guiding a powerful header past André Onana to give the visitors a crucial lead. It was a deserved breakthrough for Marco Silva’s men, who controlled large parts of the first half.
Bruno Strikes Back for United
Manchester United, desperate to avoid another disappointing cup exit, responded in the second half. Bruno Fernandes, their captain and playmaker, stepped up when it mattered most. In the 71st minute, he latched onto a loose ball inside the box and fired a left-footed strike into the net, sending Old Trafford into raptures. The momentum had shifted, and United pushed for a late winner, but Fulham’s defense held firm, forcing extra time.
Leno’s Heroics in the Shootout
After a tense 30 minutes of extra time with neither side able to find a breakthrough, the match was decided from the penalty spot. Fulham’s Bernd Leno emerged as the hero, producing two stunning saves to deny Victor Lindelöf and Joshua Zirkzee. Fulham converted their spot-kicks with composure, and when João Palhinha confidently dispatched the winning penalty, Fulham’s celebrations erupted.
What’s Next?
For Manchester United, this defeat marks another low point in a turbulent season. Having already crashed out of the Carabao Cup and struggling in the Premier League, their FA Cup title defense has now ended in disappointment. Their attention now turns to the Europa League, where they face Real Sociedad in the last 16.
Meanwhile, Fulham’s remarkable FA Cup run continues. With just two wins separating them from a Wembley final, Marco Silva’s side will dare to dream of lifting their first major trophy. Their resilience, tactical discipline, and Leno’s brilliance could make them a real threat to the competition’s heavyweights.