Manchester United staged an impressive recovery after an unexpected struggle against Coventry in an FA Cup classic on Sunday, securing victory on penalties and setting up a consecutive FA Cup final clash against Manchester City.
Erik ten Hag’s team emerged triumphant in the penalty shootout at Wembley, winning 4-2 with Rasmus Hojlund scoring the crucial spot-kick following a 3-3 deadlock after extra time.
The match epitomized a tumultuous season for Ten Hag’s squad, who have lagged behind in the Premier League and endured a forgettable Champions League campaign.
Initially, Manchester United seemed in control as they raced to a 3-0 lead against their Championship opponents under the London sun, courtesy of goals from Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, and Bruno Fernandes.
However, their penchant for squandering leads haunted them yet again.
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Coventry mounted an extraordinary comeback in the second half with goals from Ellis Simms and Callum O’Hare, before Haji Wright leveled the score with a penalty in the 95th minute, stunning United’s fans and fueling belief among the Coventry faithful.
The Coventry supporters taunted Ten Hag with chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning” as their team staged an impressive resurgence, drawing inspiration from manager Mark Robins, who played a pivotal role in United’s 1990 FA Cup triumph.
Despite Coventry’s underdog status, United dominated the early proceedings, seizing the lead in the 23rd minute through a fine move finished by McTominay.
Maguire extended the lead before Fernandes added a third with a deflected effort.
Coventry rallied in the second half, reducing the deficit through Simms and O’Hare.
Their spirited fightback culminated in Wright’s penalty, forcing extra time.
Both teams had chances to clinch victory in extra time, but the match ultimately went to penalties.
Manchester United emerged victorious in the shootout after Coventry missed crucial penalties, with Hojlund sealing the win for Ten Hag’s side.
Manchester City had earlier secured their spot in the final by defeating Chelsea 1-0 in the other semi-final on Saturday.
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