Manchester United saved their prospects for silverware this season and ended Liverpool’s hopes for four trophies with a stunning extra-time victory in a remarkable FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford.
In a high-octane match, substitute Amad Diallo became the hero for Erik ten Hag’s side, securing their place at Wembley with a last-gasp goal in extra time, sparking wild celebrations at the Stretford End. Diallo’s euphoria was short-lived, as he was given a second yellow card for his excessive celebrations.
This moment captured the essence of the enthralling encounter, with United boss Ten Hag celebrating after Diallo’s shot went past Liverpool custodian Caoimhin Kelleher.
United’s drive to reach the Wembley semi-finals was clear from the start, as they seized an early lead in the 10th minute through Scott McTominay’s close-range goal after Alejandro Garnacho’s shot was saved by Kelleher.
Although Kelleher denied McTominay another close-range opportunity, Liverpool quickly turned the game around with two goals in three minutes shortly before halftime, stunning United. Alexis MacAllister levelled the score with a deflected shot off Kobbie Mainoo, and United’s defensive failure enabled Jarell Quansah to set up Darwin Nunez for Liverpool’s second goal.
Mohamed Salah, a constant menace to United, increased Liverpool’s advantage with his 13th goal in 14 games against them, converting a rebound in front of the Stretford End after Andre Onana stopped Nunez’s first shot.
Although Liverpool created more chances in the second half, United equalised three minutes later with a low strike from substitute Antony. Marcus Rashford then lost a fantastic opportunity to secure the victory by missing a simple finish.
Liverpool reclaimed the lead in extra time with to substitute Harvey Elliott’s deflected long-range shot, but Rashford redeemed himself with another equaliser, setting up Diallo’s thrilling win.
Erik ten Hag scores a huge win.
The emergence of Sir Jim Ratcliffe as United’s co-owner has increased attention and conjecture about manager Ten Hag’s future. Although the Dutchman’s stay would never be determined by a single game, this clash with United’s archrivals was undeniably significant. These competitors have been hailed as the model for United’s ambitions, exhibiting the degree of success once associated with Manchester.
Ultimately, United earned a spectacular triumph in a contest that will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to witness it. This victory gives Ten Hag the possibility to win silverware this season and improves his case to stay at Old Trafford inside the new footballing structure being built under Ratcliffe’s leadership.
The famed “Theatre Of Dreams” witnessed a spectacular spectacle, marked by an explosive atmosphere and jubilant celebrations following Diallo’s clinching goal. United got off to an ideal start with McTominay’s early goal, but momentum flipped when Liverpool scored again shortly before halftime.
Despite Liverpool’s domination in the second half, United rallied, equalising via Antony late in regulation time and recovering from Rashford’s earlier error. They faced another uphill battle when Elliott restored Liverpool’s lead in extra time, but Rashford redeemed himself by setting up Diallo for the winning goal.
Ten Hag’s jubilation at the last whistle mirrored the elation of the supporters. United’s fans emanated excitement, and their manager appeared to join in it.
Liverpool pay the price for complacency.
As the final whistle sounded across Old Trafford, Liverpool’s players tumbled to the ground in despair, their aspirations of sealing a quadruple dashed between the agony of defeat and United’s enthusiastic celebrations.
While they still have high hopes for a memorable season, with Premier League and Europa League ambitions in addition to their Carabao Cup victory, this defeat, worsened by its manner and opponent, will be bitterly felt.
Liverpool contributed heavily to their own demise, showing indications of complacency despite dominating the second half. They missed multiple great chances to enhance their slim 2-1 advantage, missing their usual sharpness and drive.
This lapse provided an opening for a rejuvenated United, who gladly took advantage of a fragile Liverpool defence. In a furious climax, Liverpool was defeated by a quick counterattack, with Diallo dispossessing Elliott and creating a thrilling finish with Garnacho.
As Jurgen Klopp and his squad regroup, they will step up their efforts to say farewell to the German manager in style at the end of the season. They will, however, be disappointed that they missed the opportunity to return to Wembley Stadium.
