Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno stopped two penalty kicks as they triumphed over FA Cup champions Manchester United 4-3 in a shootout, ensuring their place in the quarter-finals following Sunday’s thrilling fifth-round match at Old Trafford, which concluded 1-1 after extra time.
The game proceeded to a penalty shootout after United’s Bruno Fernandes equalized in the second half, responding to Calvin Bassey’s goal for Fulham, which was scored in stoppage time at the end of the first half.
Penalty Shootout Drama
Following a scoreless extra time, Leno blocked Victor Lindelof’s penalty, putting pressure on United’s Joshua Zirkzee to convert his kick to maintain their chances. However, he shot directly at Leno, igniting exuberant celebrations from the Fulham side.
Raul Jimenez, Sander Berge, Willian, and Antonee Robinson successfully scored their penalties for Fulham, who will play against Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals.
Key Moments in Regular Time
Fulham took advantage of United’s defense, which was caught off guard during Andreas Pereira’s corner, scoring just before halftime. Rodrigo Muniz nodded the ball to Bassey, who then headed it in for his debut in the FA Cup.
Fernandes equalized in the 71st minute when Diogo Dalot delivered a cutback from the left flank, and United’s captain fired a left-footed shot from just inside the penalty area that flew past two Fulham defenders and goalkeeper Leno into the far corner, leading to extra time.
Post-Match Player Reactions
“Unbelievable,” a grinning Leno shared with the BBC. “I believe we earned the victory after the full 90 minutes. Naturally, penalties can be a bit of a gamble, and fortunately, we triumphed. The goalkeeper coach gave me some insights, but my intuition matters most.”
I got lost three times, but I have to commend our penalty kickers – it’s quite challenging. Everyone performed excellently on behalf of all of us.
Historical Context and Team Form
United, who have won the FA Cup thirteen times, triumphed over Manchester City last year but were defeated by City in the 2023 final.
Ruben Amorim’s team has faced significant difficulties this season, sitting in 14th place in the Premier League, which is five spots lower than Fulham.
Amorim stated that he believes we have the greatest opportunities in the match. In the end, penalties can be awarded to either side, and today, they didn’t favor us.
The objective is to secure the Premier League title, he mentioned. I’m aware that we are dropping matches, but the aim is still to reclaim the Premier League. I can’t say how long it will require. We have a target, and we will keep pushing ahead regardless of the circumstances.
Missed Opportunities and Final Efforts
Both teams missed opportunities to secure winning goals in the thrilling match at Old Trafford. United goalkeeper Andre Onana leapt to deflect a shot from Emile Smith Rowe towards the end of regular time.
United had multiple excellent opportunities to secure the win just moments before the final whistle. Leno rushed out to block a close-range effort from Alejandro Garnacho, and then Chido Obi, who is just 17 years old, initially sent the ball narrowly off target before compelling Leno to make a diving stop.
Manager Perspective
Fulham manager Marco Silva stated that his squad earned victory during the regular time.
I believe we were the strongest team on the field. Our squad was in control, mastering possession, he mentioned. We have earned our place in the next round.
Looking Ahead
Fulham attained their sole FA Cup final appearance in 1975, where they lost 2-0 to West Ham United. Leno expressed a desire to see his team return to Wembley for the final.
Two years back, we were defeated in the quarter-finals by Manchester United, and now we find ourselves in the quarter-finals once more, he stated. Our goal is to reach Wembley without a doubt.
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