Manchester United Deny City's Double Dreams

Manchester United and their embattled manager Erik ten Hag defied expectations and silenced critics by securing a stunning FA Cup final victory over favorites Manchester City at Wembley. Despite widespread belief that United’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe would sack Ten Hag regardless of the outcome, the manager may now depart on the highest note of his two-year tenure. This victory marks United’s finest moment in recent years, contrasting sharply with their generally disappointing season.

United’s triumph, which prevented Premier League champions City from achieving a second consecutive domestic double, stemmed from an exceptional first-half performance. Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo set the tone with their goals. Garnacho capitalized on a mix-up between City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega and defender Josko Gvardiol to score an open goal at the half-hour mark. Nine minutes later, Mainoo finished off a sweeping move, aided by Bruno Fernandes’ delicate touch.

City dominated the second half, with Erling Haaland hitting the post, United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana making a crucial save from Kyle Walker and Julian Alvarez missing a prime opportunity. City substitute Jeremy Doku scored with four minutes remaining but United held on to claim a famous victory, earning their 13th FA Cup and their first since 2016.

Erik ten Hag’s Glorious Finale

When the final whistle blew on this remarkable FA Cup final, Lisandro Martinez lifted Ten Hag in celebration. The build-up to the match had been overshadowed by rumors that it would be Ten Hag’s last game as manager. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who would make that decision, celebrated instead of dwelling on the speculation.

United’s path to Wembley was fraught with challenges. They narrowly defeated Liverpool 4-3 in the quarter-finals at Old Trafford with Amad Diallo scoring a last-minute goal in extra time. They also survived a scare in the semi-finals, squandering a 3-0 lead against Championship side Coventry City before winning on penalties.

United’s first-half performance in the final was one of their best under Ten Hag, showcasing excellent organization and offensive threat. Mainoo’s second goal was a highlight, coming from a well-placed pass by Marcus Rashford, a deft cross by Garnacho, and a perfect setup by Fernandes.

Mainoo, at 19, stood out, not just scoring but maintaining a calm presence throughout the match. His performance suggests he could be a key player for England in Euro 2024. However, Ten Hag was the real hero. Criticized and seen as a manager waiting to be dismissed, he inspired a top-class performance from a struggling Manchester United team, securing a spot in next season’s Europa League. This victory is his second trophy with United, following last season’s League Cup win.

Man City Suffer Rare Off Day

Manchester City’s hopes of winning back-to-back Premier League and FA Cup doubles crumbled due to a poor performance. Despite being deserving league champions after their final-day win against West Ham United, Pep Guardiola’s side faltered and looked uncertain against a fearless Manchester United, especially in the first half.

Goalkeeper Ortega, who had impressed as a substitute in the title run-in, appeared nervous and made a costly error, leading to Garnacho’s goal. This mistake exemplified City’s uncharacteristic performance, and midfielder Rodri experienced his first loss in 75 games for City, a streak dating back to February 2023.

Even as City pressed hard in the second half, they failed to reach their usual standards. Haaland hit the bar, and Alvarez missed a simple chance. Footballer of the Year Phil Foden couldn’t provide the necessary inspiration, and a weary Kevin de Bruyne was substituted before the hour mark.

This season, City must settle for just the Premier League title, a step down from last season’s historic Treble of the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.