Manchester United edged past Leicester City in dramatic fashion, thanks to a last-gasp header from Harry Maguire. The former Foxes defender haunted his old club as the Red Devils staged a thrilling second-half comeback to book their place in the FA Cup fifth round. Alejandro Garnacho’s introduction transformed the game, igniting United’s attack and setting the stage for a controversial finish, as Maguire’s winner appeared to be offside in the absence of VAR.
A Tale of Two Halves at Old Trafford
As has become a frustrating trend for Manchester United, they found themselves trailing after a lackluster first half. Defensive frailties once again plagued Ruben Amorim’s side, allowing Bobby De Cordova-Reid to capitalize on a loose ball just before halftime. The goal underscored United’s continued vulnerability at the back, leaving them with an uphill battle in the second half.
Amorim, recognizing the need for urgency, made a crucial substitution at the break. He brought on the electric Alejandro Garnacho, replacing debutant Patrick Dorgu. The young Argentine immediately injected energy and purpose into United’s attack, relentlessly driving at Leicester’s defense.
Garnacho Sparks United’s Revival
Garnacho was inches away from an instant equalizer, seeing his shot deflected onto the crossbar before being scrambled away from the goal line. His persistence paid off when he delivered a precise cross for Joshua Zirkzee, who tapped in from close range to restore parity.
With momentum firmly on their side, United pushed for a winner. Their efforts bore fruit in dramatic fashion during stoppage time, when Bruno Fernandes whipped in a free-kick and Maguire rose highest to head the ball into the net. While replays suggested the goal was offside, the absence of VAR meant the decision stood, sending United through in controversial circumstances.
Manchester United Player Ratings
Andre Onana – 6/10
Had little chance with Leicester’s goal but made some decent stops when called upon. Distribution was shaky at times.
Diogo Dalot – 6.5/10
Got forward well but struggled defensively in the first half. Improved after the break and linked up with Garnacho effectively.
Harry Maguire – 8/10 (MOTM)
Defensively solid and stepped up when it mattered most with a match-winning header against his former club. A crucial presence in both boxes.
Lisandro Martinez – 6/10
Looked rusty in his positioning at times but helped steady the defense after United’s equalizer.
Luke Shaw – 6.5/10
Struggled in the first half but improved going forward. His overlapping runs were key in United’s attacking resurgence.
Kobbie Mainoo – 7/10
Another composed performance from the youngster. Controlled the tempo in midfield and kept United moving forward.
Bruno Fernandes – 7.5/10
Started slowly but grew into the game. His pinpoint delivery for Maguire’s winner proved decisive.
Mason Mount – 6/10
Energetic but lacked end product.
Marcus Rashford – 5.5/10
Anonymous for large parts of the game. Lacked his usual explosiveness and struggled to make an impact.
Joshua Zirkzee – 7/10
Took his goal well and worked hard up front. A promising display in a crucial game.
Patrick Dorgu – 5/10
A forgettable debut. Looked overwhelmed in the first half and was hooked at halftime.
Alejandro Garnacho – 8/10
Completely changed the game. His direct running and creativity tormented Leicester’s defense, playing a key role in the comeback.
Rasmus Højlund – 6.5/10
Provided energy and movement up front but didn’t get many clear chances.
Casemiro – 6/10
Added physicality in midfield but didn’t influence the game too much.
Manchester United’s performance was a tale of two halves—uninspiring in the first, electric in the second. The impact of Garnacho and Maguire proved decisive, but the win came under controversial circumstances. Regardless, United march on in the FA Cup, with Amorim hoping this victory sparks a more consistent run of form.
Will this win be a turning point for United, or will their inconsistency continue to haunt them? Only time will tell.
