Brighton Knock Manchester United Out of FA Cup in 2–1 Shock at Old Trafford
January 11, 2026
272d agoManchester United’s FA Cup campaign came to a disappointing end today as Brighton & Hove Albion secured a 2–1 victory at Old Trafford, dumping the Red Devils out of the competition in the third round. United dominated possession at times but lacked cutting edge in the final third, allowing Brighton to take advantage of key moments and secure their place in the fourth round.
Brighton struck first in the 12th minute when Brajan Gruda nodded in from close range following a dangerous attacking move, giving the visitors an early lead and unsettling United’s rhythm. Despite United’s attempts to control the game, Brighton’s disciplined defence and quick transitions kept the hosts on the back foot for much of the first half.
After the break, Brighton doubled their advantage when former United forward Danny Welbeck collected a pass and fired a powerful strike into the top corner, inflicting further damage on his former club. The goal highlighted Brighton’s clinical edge in the final third and United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
United sparked a late rally, and in the 85th minute Benjamin Šeško headed home a corner to make it 2–1, giving the home fans renewed hope of an equaliser. However, any momentum was quickly lost when 18-year-old substitute Shea Lacey was sent off for a second yellow card in the 89th minute, leaving United to finish the match with ten men and extinguishing their comeback hopes.
The defeat marks a significant low point in Manchester United’s season, as they exit both domestic cup competitions at the opening stage for the first time in decades and now must focus solely on their Premier League campaign. Brighton, meanwhile, celebrated their first FA Cup win over Manchester United and will look ahead to the fourth round with confidence.
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