Grimsby Town humiliated Manchester United in shocking EFL Cup game
In a humiliating turn of events, Manchester United was knocked out of the EFL Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town after a marathon 12-11 penalty shootout. The Red Devils, who were heavy favorites, were lucky to even force the shootout after falling two goals behind in an abysmal first-half performance, with goalkeeper André Onana making a costly error on his return to the team.
Manchester United suffered a monumental humiliation, crashing out of the Carabao Cup in a shocking penalty shootout loss to League Two side Grimsby Town at Blundell Park. The final score of 12-11 in the shootout triggered a jubilant pitch invasion from the home fans, marking one of the greatest nights in the club's history.
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The Red Devils' abysmal first-half display left them trailing 2-0. The second goal came from a shocking error by goalkeeper André Onana, who was making his first appearance since a pre-season injury. The Cameroon international inexplicably fumbled a cross, allowing Tyrell Warren, a former United academy player, to tap the ball into an empty net. This doubled the lead given to Grimsby by Charles Vernam, who had scored with a low shot earlier.
Manager Ruben Amorim responded with triple substitutions at halftime, bringing on captain Bruno Fernandes, new forward Bryan Mbeumo, and defender Matthijs de Ligt. The changes sparked a comeback, with Mbeumo pulling a goal back in the 75th minute and Harry Maguire scoring a last-minute equalizer to force a shootout.
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However, the comeback fell short. United's Matheus Cunha failed to convert their final penalty in the regulation five, and Mbeumo's second spot-kick hit the bar, handing Grimsby the victory.
The defeat adds to a dreadful run for Manchester United, who finished 15th in the Premier League last season and remain winless this season. The Carabao Cup was one of only two realistic chances for silverware this year, and they were eliminated at the first opportunity by a team with a squad valued at just £3.1 million, a stark contrast to United's £765 million.
First time ever in EFL Cup
United had never lost to a fourth-tier team in the EFL Cup, and were playing in the second round for the first time since 2014. United have won 20 league titles, 19 domestic cups, three European Cups and various other bits and pieces. Grimsby's highlights are the Second Division titles they won in 1901 and 1934 - and most recently the 1998 Auto Windscreens Shields Trophy.
Former United striker Dion Dublin said on 5 Live that Grimsby "fully deserved" the victory, adding, "If there is a percentage on this game, I think Grimsby nicked it 60-40, perhaps even more than that." The historic upset showcased Grimsby's courage and belief, while highlighting the immense challenges facing Manchester United.
