Manchester United’s quest to defend their FA Cup title ended in the fifth round as they suffered a 4-3 defeat on penalties to Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday. Calvin Bassey opened the scoring for the visitors before Bruno Fernandes equalized for the home side. Here are four key takeaways from the match.
1. United’s Strong Start Fades Away
Riding on the confidence of their two league wins over Fulham this season, Manchester United started brightly, dominating possession in the early stages. Despite Adama Traoré testing United’s defense a few times with his trickery and pace, the hosts created the first clear chance when Bruno Fernandes’ shot was saved by Bernd Leno. Christian Eriksen also forced a stop from the German goalkeeper, while Rasmus Højlund sent an effort wide.
Much of the early play was concentrated in Fulham’s half. Even when the visitors attempted to attack, United’s defense initially held firm. However, after the half-hour mark, Fulham grew into the game, utilizing crosses to trouble the United backline. Although the defense managed to keep them at bay for a while, the visitors gained momentum.
Towards the end of the first half, Fulham earned back-to-back corners. The second, delivered by Andreas Pereira, was nudged by Rodrigo Muniz into the path of Calvin Bassey, who headed past André Onana to give Fulham the lead.
2. Fernandes Delivers Again in the FA Cup
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has a stellar record in the FA Cup, having been involved in 11 goals across his last 11 appearances in the competition. In just two of those games, he failed to contribute directly to a goal.
Fernandes continued his impressive run, scoring in the 71st minute with a superb finish off a Diogo Dalot cross. The well-placed left-footed shot found the bottom corner past Bernd Leno.
The second half had a disrupted rhythm due to an injury to Adama Traoré, a break for Noussair Mazraoui to break his fast, and several substitutions. Fernandes’ goal provided the spark United needed to get back into the contest.