Brighton secured a comeback victory against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, ending United’s involvement in the competition. The match saw United initially take a two-goal lead at Old Trafford before Brighton responded with three goals, including a late winner from Maxim De Cuyper.
The defeat marks a challenging period for Manchester United, following a recent derby loss to Manchester City and a reported desire from JJ Gabriel to leave the club. The outcome also ended a 50-year record at Old Trafford, as it was the first time since September 1976 that United lost a game after holding a two-goal advantage at home.
United’s early lead
Manchester United started the match strongly, with Shea Lacey, 19, scoring on his full debut just eight minutes into the game. Lacey skillfully navigated Brighton’s area, beating Jaouen Hadjam before finding the net past Jason Steele. Benjamin Sesko’s hold-up play was noted as crucial in the build-up, allowing United players to advance, with Youri Tielemans providing the assist to Lacey.
Less than 120 seconds after Lacey’s goal, Mason Mount extended United’s lead. Marcus Rashford’s run down the left wing created the opportunity, and although Steele initially saved Rashford’s effort, the rebound fell to Mount, who scored his first goal since a victory against Wolves in December.
Manager Michael Carrick expressed his initial satisfaction with the start of the game, highlighting Lacey’s goal as a moment to celebrate. He noted that the night took a different direction, leading to a disappointing outcome for his team.
Brighton’s turnaround
Despite United’s dominant start, Brighton began to find their footing. An early corner from Olivier Boscagli went straight out, but Matt O’Riley soon forced an error from Ayden Heaven, leading to another corner. Malick Yalcouyé had a clear chance on goal but missed, while Pascal Gross also sent a shot over the bar, indicating Brighton’s growing presence.
Brighton’s breakthrough came when Hadjam’s diagonal pass bypassed United’s defense, allowing Charalampos Kostoulas to score past debutant goalkeeper Karl Darlow. This goal provided Brighton with renewed hope before half-time.
The second half saw Brighton complete their comeback. Luka Vuskovic headed the ball to Gross, who then scored to level the match. Shortly after, Brighton attacked down the right flank, and Kostoulas’s cross deflected off Noussair Mazraoui, setting up Maxim De Cuyper to score the winning goal in the 69th minute.
Carrick made substitutions, bringing on Bruno Fernandes for Mount and later Matheus Cunha, in an attempt to change the game’s momentum. However, United were unable to find an equalizer.
Aftermath and future outlook
The defeat leaves Manchester United with significant questions, especially after accumulating only four points from a possible 12 in the league. Carrick acknowledged the disappointment and frustration, taking responsibility for the team’s performance. He emphasized the need for the team to evolve, learn, and deal with challenging situations.
Carrick reflected on recent setbacks, including a late goal conceded against Everton and a goal against Manchester City, suggesting these incidents have accumulated to create a larger sense of disappointment. He stressed the importance of finding answers for the upcoming match against Fulham on Sunday.
Source: theguardian.com
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