Man Utd 1-1 Fulham (Fernandes 71′ | Bassey 45+1′) – Fulham triumphs 4-3 on penalties
OLD TRAFFORD — In a surprising twist, Rasmus Hojlund’s speed was called into question, with claims from one of his former managers suggesting he could run the 100m in just 11 seconds. However, if the reality is anything to go by, it seems he barely manages to find his pace on the pitch. Struggling with a lack of goals, confidence for this Manchester United striker appears to have hit an all-time low, leading many to ponder whether he is truly putting in the effort required to turn things around.
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In a disappointing FA Cup clash against Fulham, United’s hopes were dashed as they succumbed to a penalty shootout defeat. Hojlund’s lack of activity for the first 68 minutes left his team with little chance to make an impact. Typically, when a striker struggles, the blame often shifts to those supplying the service. However, with Hojlund remaining largely static, even the magical feet of Bruno Fernandes couldn’t elevate the performance of a team yearning for better days.
The bar for expectations was admittedly low, but the opening 30 minutes of the match showcased one of United’s more promising displays this season. There were glimpses of control and coherence in their attacking play, with several players combining efforts. Hojlund even managed a shot on target, though it was hardly a game-changer. Defensively, the team appeared solid, with minimal errors and fewer moments of panic that have plagued them in recent years around the M16 area.
Unfortunately, this brief period of stability was not destined to last. In classic United fashion, the improvements made in their attacking set pieces were overshadowed by yet another defensive mishap. Just before half-time, Calvin Bassey headed home from a corner, leaving United trailing. Since the arrival of their new manager, no other Premier League team has fallen behind first as often as United. Regardless of the manager’s efforts to address criticism regarding the team’s transition play, this statistic is hard to overlook.
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This is particularly concerning for a team struggling to find the net, especially at home. Much of this struggle can be attributed to Hojlund, the £72 million striker who seems unable to hold the ball up effectively. The patience of the fans is wearing thin. Old Trafford has learned that booing underperforming players rarely yields results, but the frustration was palpable as the crowd groaned at Hojlund’s lack of effort throughout the match. When his number finally flashed on the fourth official’s board midway through the second half, the Stretford End erupted in a chorus of approval.
Manager Ruben Amorim has limited options at his disposal, a consequence of allowing two forwards to leave in January without securing replacements. Hojlund’s continued selection in a system that thrives on attacking momentum is perplexing. Excitement surrounds Hojlund’s potential successor, Chido Obi. Although still raw, Obi demonstrated an eagerness to engage with the game, creating two opportunities late in the match that Hojlund would likely have shied away from. In a mere 52 minutes on the pitch, Obi managed three significant chances, while Hojlund has only achieved the same across several Premier League matches this season.
Bruno Fernandes, often underappreciated, once again proved his mettle by rescuing United with a brilliant equalizer. Two crucial saves from goalkeeper Andre Onana, both denying Emile Smith Rowe, were equally vital in pushing the match into extra time. In the additional minutes, Obi remained United’s most prominent threat, forcing a superb save from Bernd Leno, as both fatigued teams prepared for penalties.
Player of the Match: Sander Berge
- Consistently posed a challenge throughout the match, showcasing his skills and determination. His penalty kick was truly exceptional, arguably one of the finest ever seen at Old Trafford.
As the final whistle blew, jubilant scenes erupted in the away section after Joshua Zirkzee’s missed penalty ended United’s hopes and sent Fulham into the quarter-finals. Bassey, buoyed by the support of his fans, led the celebrations, having managed to maintain his energy after standing alongside Hojlund for much of the match.
