Manchester United's hopes for silverware this season were dashed as they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Brighton in the FA Cup third round at Old Trafford. The loss marks the first time Brighton has ever beaten Manchester United in the FA Cup.
The match began with an energetic start from the home side, but Brighton quickly silenced the crowd when Brajan Gruda scored in the 12th minute. Danny Welbeck, a former Manchester United player, extended Brighton's lead in the 64th minute with a well-taken goal.
Facing a 2-0 deficit, Manchester United manager S. Lammens made a double substitution, bringing on Joshua Zirkzee and teenage prospect Shea Lacey in an attempt to revitalize the attack. The change injected some much-needed energy into the team, and Benjamin Sesko pulled one back for United in the 85th minute with a header that slipped under Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
However, any hopes of a late comeback were short-lived as Shea Lacey was sent off after receiving two yellow cards. Despite a late push and five minutes of added time, Manchester United were unable to find an equalizer, sealing their fate in the competition.
Brighton's starting lineup included Verbruggen, Lewis Dunk, Charlie Tasker, J. Van Hecke, Harry Howell, Yasin Ayari, Tom Watson, K. Mitoma and C. Kostoulas. Manchester United's lineup featured Lammens, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martínez, Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot, M. Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha and B. Šeško.
The defeat is a significant blow for Manchester United, who now have no realistic chance of winning a trophy this season. Interim boss Darren Fletcher, who won the FA Cup as a player with Manchester United in 2004, had hoped to make a positive impact in the competition. However, his team was unable to overcome a determined Brighton side.
For Brighton, the victory represents a major achievement. Manager Fabian Hurzeler will be hoping that this cup run can inject some energy into what has been a decent season. Brighton showed great belief and determination, securing a deserved victory at Old Trafford.
