Manchester United were knocked out of the (Football Association Challenge Cup) FA Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford on Sunday, compounding a turbulent week that saw the Premier League club part ways with head coach Ruben Amorim.
Managerless United struggled to find control as former striker Danny Welbeck scored the decisive goal in the 64th minute of the third-round tie, drawing loud jeers from the home supporters. Benjamin Sesko’s late header proved only a consolation as Brighton sealed progression.
The defeat has likely consigned United to another trophyless campaign. Earlier in the season, they had already exited the English League Cup following a humiliating loss to fourth-tier Grimsby, meaning both domestic knockout competitions ended at the earliest stage.
United’s only remaining route to silverware this term is the Premier League, a prospect that appears increasingly remote. The 20-time champions are currently seventh in the standings, 17 points adrift of leaders Arsenal with 17 matches remaining.
Earlier on Sunday, Arsenal advanced comfortably, recovering from an early setback to defeat Portsmouth 4-1 at Fratton Park. Gabriel Martinelli struck a hat-trick as the Premier League leaders asserted their dominance over the Championship side.
Also read: Egypt, Nigeria storm into Africa Cup quarterfinals
Colby Bishop gave Portsmouth a surprise lead inside three minutes, but Andre Dozzell’s own goal levelled matters shortly afterwards. Martinelli headed Arsenal in front in the 25th minute, added his second shortly after the restart and completed his treble in the 72nd minute, his first hat-trick for the club.
Reflecting on the win, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said: “It’s always tough to go into these places, especially in the manner that we started the game, conceding the early goal, but we managed to turn things around so I’m very happy.”
Arsenal, the FA Cup’s record 14-time winners, last lifted the trophy in 2020 during Arteta’s first season in charge.
“I think we are very privileged to be where we are, and the games that we have to play, which means that we are in every competition,” Arteta added.
Elsewhere, Leeds United recovered from a goal down to beat Derby County 3–1, while third-tier Mansfield produced a shock by defeating Sheffield United 4–3.
Follow us
