Dramatic FA Cup Victory for Manchester United Amid Controversy

2025-03-01

Manchester United secured a dramatic and controversial 2-1 victory over Leicester City in the FA Cup fourth round, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Harry Maguire. The match, played at Old Trafford, saw United come from behind to advance to the fifth round, but the decisive goal was marred by controversy as Maguire appeared to be offside when he headed home Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick in the 93rd minute. With VAR not in use at this stage of the competition, the goal stood, leaving Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy furious.

Leicester had taken the lead in the 42nd minute through Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who capitalised on a rebound after Andre Onana saved Wilfred Ndidi’s initial effort. United struggled in the first half, failing to register a shot on target, and were booed off at the break. However, the introduction of Alejandro Garnacho at half-time transformed the game. The young winger caused problems for Leicester’s defence and played a key role in United’s equaliser, which came in the 68th minute. Joshua Zirkzee, who had just come on as a substitute, tapped home after Rasmus Hojlund’s shot was blocked.

As the game seemed destined for extra time, Maguire rose to head in Fernandes’ free-kick, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans. Replays showed the defender was offside, but without VAR, the goal stood. Leicester’s players and staff were left aggrieved, with Van Nistelrooy describing the decision as “unthinkable” and “hard to swallow.”

United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his side’s performance was far from perfect, praising the result but acknowledging the need for improvement. The win keeps United’s hopes of retaining the FA Cup alive, while Leicester must now focus on their Premier League survival battle. The controversy surrounding Maguire’s winner is likely to reignite debates about the use of VAR in the early rounds of the competition.

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