Manchester United vs Leicester FA Cup Report

Scorers: Zirkzee 68’, Maguire 90+3’; De Cordova-Reid 42’

Manchester United staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Leicester City 2-1 at Old Trafford, securing their place in the FA Cup fifth round.

Harry Maguire’s injury-time header completed the turnaround after substitute Joshua Zirkzee had cancelled out Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s first-half opener for the Foxes.

United’s Lack of Firepower Exposed in First Half

With Marcus Rashford leaving on loan without a replacement being signed, Rúben Amorim’s decision not to bring in a striker looked like a costly gamble for over an hour.

United struggled for creativity and urgency in the first half, with Leicester’s well-organised defence dealing comfortably with their slow and predictable attacking play.

The hosts’ best moments in the opening period came through Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho, but their final product was lacking. Meanwhile, Leicester threatened early on, with Jordan Ayew forcing André Onana into a comfortable save after being set up by Patson Daka.

Despite United seeing more of the ball, it was Leicester who struck first. A hopeful punt upfield from Mads Hermansen was flicked on by Patrick Dorgu and picked up by Bilal El Khannouss, who drove past Leny Yoro before squaring for Wilfred Ndidi.

The midfielder’s effort was saved by Onana, but De Cordova-Reid reacted quickest to nod home from six yards, giving the Foxes a surprise lead just before half-time.

Garnacho and Zirkzee Spark United’s Fightback

Amorim responded at half-time by introducing Alejandro Garnacho for Dorgu, and the Argentine winger provided much-needed urgency to United’s attack.

However, clear-cut chances remained scarce until the 65th minute when Manuel Ugarte sent Garnacho through on goal.

His shot, which was deflected by Wout Faes, looped over Hermansen and seemed destined for the net, only for Caleb Okoli to miraculously clear it off the line, with the ball rebounding off the crossbar and into the goalkeeper’s arms.

United’s pressure eventually paid off just minutes later. Garnacho burst down the left, outpacing De Cordova-Reid before squaring the ball into the box.

Rasmus Højlund’s attempted flick was blocked by Faes, but the loose ball fell kindly for substitute Joshua Zirkzee, who made no mistake in firing home the equaliser from close range.

Maguire’s Late Heroics (and Refereeing Mistake) Seal Victory

With extra-time looming, United pushed for a winner, and their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time.

Bruno Fernandes delivered a pinpoint free-kick from the right flank, and Maguire—against his former club—rose highest to power a header past Hermansen, sending Old Trafford into raptures.

Despite protests from Leicester players for offside, the goal stood, sealing a dramatic late win and ensuring United’s FA Cup defence remained intact. Indeed, the replays showed that Maguire (along with another three United players) was offside, but the lack of VAR meant that referee Michael Salisbury did not have to wait for a check.

What the Result Means for Both Sides

For United, this was a vital win following their disappointing defeat to Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Amorim will be relieved to have avoided another setback, but the performance highlighted ongoing concerns about United’s attacking struggles.

Without a recognised striker, the Red Devils looked blunt for much of the game, and they will need more inspiration from the likes of Garnacho and Zirkzee if they are to progress further in the competition.

Leicester, meanwhile, will feel hard done by. The Foxes looked set to force extra-time but were undone by a last-minute set-piece.

This marks their third defeat at Old Trafford this season and a second cup exit at the same venue, following their Carabao Cup elimination earlier in the campaign.

Final Thoughts

Manchester United’s FA Cup defence remains alive thanks to Garnacho’s impact and Maguire’s late header.

However, their struggles in front of goal raise further questions about their lack of attacking reinforcements. Amorim will take the win, but United must improve if they are to challenge for silverware this season.

For Leicester, it was a cruel ending to a disciplined performance, and Ruud van Nistelrooy’s difficult start as manager continues. The Foxes must now turn their focus to league survival, as their FA Cup journey ends in heartbreaking fashion.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Fixtures – Emirates FA Cup – Competitions | The Football Association