Manchester United secured a last-gasp victory over Leicester City in the FA Cup fourth round, despite an uninspiring overall performance at Old Trafford.
A late winner from Harry Maguire, who headed in Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick, sealed a 2-1 win for the hosts, sparking jubilant celebrations inside Old Trafford.
However, United rode their luck as VAR, inactive in the FA Cup until the fifth round, would have ruled the goal out for offside.
The first half was a dismal affair for United, who failed to register a single shot on target.
Leicester took full advantage, with Bobby De Cordova-Reid opening the scoring just before half-time.
Wilfred Ndidi’s low shot was well saved by André Onana, but the rebound fell kindly to De Cordova-Reid, who made no mistake in heading the ball into the net.
Get in! The Reds leave it late but we are in the hat for the fifth round 👏🎩#MUFC || #FACup
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 7, 2025
Looking for a spark, manager Ruben Amorim introduced Alejandro Garnacho at the break, and the Argentine’s impact was immediate.
United finally showed some attacking intent, with Garnacho’s pace and trickery tormenting the Leicester defence.
His persistence paid off in the 68th minute when he delivered a cross from the left, leading to a fortunate break for United. Rasmus Hojlund’s initial effort was blocked, but the ball fell to substitute Joshua Zirkzee, who coolly slotted home to bring United level.
From that moment on, United dominated, with Garnacho at the heart of every attack. He was unlucky not to score himself, having a shot cleared off the line and later striking the side-netting.
Leicester, who had looked comfortable in the first half, found themselves increasingly under pressure but defended resolutely, seemingly forcing extra time.
However, deep into stoppage time, United were awarded a free-kick on the right flank. Fernandes delivered a beautifully floated ball into the box, where Maguire rose highest to nod home against his former club. Leicester players appealed for offside, but with no VAR to intervene, the goal stood, handing United a dramatic and controversial victory.
It was an escape for the hosts, who were far from their best but managed to find a way through. Leicester will feel hard done by, having controlled large spells of the match and defended admirably.
The victory sees Manchester United advance to the FA Cup Round of 16, keeping their hopes of silverware alive.
Amorim will be relieved but also aware that his side’s inconsistent displays remain a major concern.
For Leicester, it is a cruel exit, but they can take heart from their performance, particularly in the first half, as they turn their focus back to their survival scrap.