Manchester United secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Leicester City in the FA Cup fourth round.
The holders needed a dramatic stoppage-time header from Harry Maguire to advance to the next stage.
The win keeps their dream of defending the trophy alive.
The game started with Leicester looking confident. The Foxes took the lead three minutes before half-time.
Wilfred Ndidi’s shot was saved by Andre Onana, but Bobby De Cordova-Reid was quick to react. He nodded the rebound into the net, giving Leicester a 1-0 lead at the break.
Manchester United looked sluggish in the first half. They lacked energy and struggled to break down Leicester’s defense. Ruben Amorim’s side had work to do in the second half if they wanted to stay in the competition.
United Respond After the Break
Manchester United showed urgency in the second half. They increased their attacking tempo and put Leicester under pressure.
Their efforts paid off in the 68th minute when Joshua Zirkzee found the equalizer. Alejandro Garnacho’s cross took a deflection before landing perfectly for Zirkzee, who slotted the ball into an empty net.
With extra time looming, both teams looked for a winning goal. United pushed forward while Leicester focused on defending. The visitors nearly stole the game when El Khannouss fired a shot just wide of the post.
Maguire’s Late Winner Sparks Controversy
Just when it seemed like the game was heading to extra time, United found their moment. In the 93rd minute, Bruno Fernandes delivered a brilliant free-kick into the box.
Maguire, unmarked at the far post, headed the ball into the net. Leicester players protested, claiming offside, but with no VAR until the fifth round, the goal stood.
Old Trafford erupted in celebration as United secured a dramatic win. The holders advanced to the FA Cup fifth round for the 10th time in 11 seasons.
Reactions from Both Camps
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his team must improve despite the win.
“We have to believe until the end. It was a good result, but not a good performance. We started slow and lacked energy. The second half was better, but we need to do more,” Amorim said.
Harry Maguire, the match-winner, emphasized the importance of the victory.
“It’s huge for us. We are the holders, and we take this competition seriously. The first half was poor, but we showed our fighting spirit after the break,” Maguire stated.
For Leicester, manager Ruud van Nistelrooy was frustrated with the result.
“It’s a tough one to take. We were solid for most of the game and deserved more. The offside goal was disappointing, but we must move on and focus on the league,” Van Nistelrooy said.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Manchester United now wait for their next FA Cup opponent when the fifth-round draw is made on Monday. Meanwhile, Leicester will turn their attention back to the English Premier League as they battle for survival.
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