Manchester United won a last victory over Leicester City in the fourth round of the FA Cup, despite an overall interest without interest to Old Trafford.
A late winner of Harry Maguire, who directed Bruno Fernandes’ free kick, sealed a 2-1 victory for the hosts, causing jubilant celebrations to Old Trafford.
However, United has brought his chance as Var, inactive in FA Cup to the fifth round, would have judged the goal of offside.
The first half was a lamentable affair for United, who failed to record a single shot on the target.
Leicester took full advantage of it, Bobby de Cordova-Reid opening the scoring just before half-time.
The low shooting of Wilfred Ndidi was well saved by André Onana, but the rebound fell gently with De Cordova-Reid, who was not mistaken when he directed the ball in the net.
Go up! The Reds leave late but we are in the hat for the fifth round 👏🎩#MUFC || #Facup
– Manchester United (@manutd) February 7, 2025
In search of a spark, manager Ruben Amorim presented Alejandro Garnacho at the break, and the impact of the Argentinian was immediate.
United finally showed an offensive intention, with the rhythm and the cunning of Garnacho tormenting the defense of Leicester.
His persistence borne fruit in the 68th minute when he delivered a cross of the left, leading to a lucky break for United. The initial effort of Rasmus Hojlund was blocked, but the ball fell to replace Joshua Zirkzee, who coldly tilted at home to bring a United level.
From this moment, United dominated, with Garnacho in the heart of each attack. He did not have the chance not to mark himself, having a shot eliminated from the line and later hitting the lateral net.
Leicester, who looked comfortable in the first half, was increasingly under pressure but resolutely defended himself, apparently forcing additional time.
However, deep down, United received a free kick on the right side. Fernandes delivered a beautifully floating bullet in the box, where Maguire was the highest to nod his head against his old club. Leicester players called offside, but without Var to intervene, the goal stood, awarded UNITED a dramatic and controversial victory.
It was an escape for the hosts, who were far from their best but who managed to find a means. Leicester will feel hard, having checked big spells from the match and admirably defended.
The victory sees Manchester United qualify for the end of the FA Cup, keeping their hopes of silverware alive.
Amorim will be relieved but also aware that the inconsistent displays of his team remain a major concern.
For Leicester, this is a cruel outing, but they can take the heart of their performance, especially in the first half, while they focus on their survival scrap.
