Man United Cruises to the FA Cup Final Via Penalty Shootout, Set Up an Epic Final Against Man City 

By Sakiru Olopade 

After a dismal performance against Sevilla that led to their exit of the Europa League, last Thursday, bounced back with victory against Brighton in the FA cup semi final, decided at the Wembley stadium.

Brighton, going into the encounter as clear favourite to win the tie by bookmakers, due to their impressive form, were subdued by the Red Devils to cruise to FA Cup final. By setting up an epic FA Cup final derby against their arch rival, Manchester City.

The Seagulls, attempting to book their second FA CUP final, dominated possession but with
both teams sharing chances evenly.

Brighton were more attacking minded in the opening minutes with David De Gea, who was heavily criticized for his poor performance against Sevilla in the Europa League quarter final match, thwarting Alexis Mac Allister’s goal bound efforts.

Manchester United, gradually settled into the game, and it became an end to end stuff, with both goalkeepers, Robert Sanchez and David De Gea, making daring saves to keep the game barren.

The Red Devils were persistent, with Bruno Fernandez at his best element and Antony, mesmerizing on the wing.

Following a barren draw, after extra time of a thrillingly tense semi final, Brighton’s Solly March was the only player to miss in a 13 penalty shootout, sending the ball high over the cross bar while Victor Linderlof converted his kick to lift United to the final on 7 — 6 goals margin.

Erik Ten Hag’s side will be attempting to prevent Manchester City from winning treble; Uefa Champions League, FA cup and English Premier League while Manchester United will be seeking to win double, having won the carabao cup, in February, early this year.