The magic of the FA Cup delivered yet another thrilling night as Fulham and Brighton booked their spots in the quarter-finals with dramatic victories over Manchester United and Newcastle United, respectively.
Fulham Stun FA Cup Holders Man Utd in Penalty Shootout
In an electrifying encounter at Old Trafford, Fulham defeated reigning FA Cup champions Manchester United in a nail-biting penalty shootout, marking their first victory over the Red Devils in the competition since 1908.
Calvin Bassey opened the scoring for the visitors late in the first half, continuing his impressive record at Old Trafford. However, Bruno Fernandes’ well-taken strike dragged United back into the game, pushing the match into extra time and eventually penalties.
Bernd Leno emerged as the hero for Fulham, saving crucial penalties from Joshua Zirkzee and Victor Lindelof to guide his side to victory. With this triumph, Fulham now advance to the quarter-finals, where they will host London rivals Crystal Palace.
For United, this defeat effectively ends their hopes of European football next season, as winning the FA Cup was their last available route to continental competition.
Welbeck’s Late Heroics Sink Newcastle as Brighton March On
At St. James’ Park, Brighton secured their place in the quarter-finals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, thanks to Danny Welbeck’s stoppage-time winner.
Newcastle had initially taken the lead through an Alexander Isak penalty, marking his 17th goal in 17 starts since December. However, the Magpies’ joy was short-lived as former Newcastle winger Yankuba Minteh equalized against the run of play.
The match descended into chaos in extra time as both sides were reduced to 10 men. Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon were shown red cards in quick succession, adding further drama to an already pulsating contest.
With penalties looming, Welbeck once again proved to be the difference-maker, netting a beautifully lofted finish to seal Brighton’s progression. His goal continued his rich vein of form, having also scored the winner against Bournemouth just five days prior.
Adding to Newcastle’s woes, Isak limped off before the game’s conclusion, leaving manager Eddie Howe concerned ahead of their EFL Cup final clash against Liverpool on March 16. The club is also considering an appeal against Gordon’s red card decision.
Quarter-Final Draw: A Clash of Giants and Underdogs
The FA Cup quarter-final draw has set up some intriguing matchups:
- Fulham vs. Crystal Palace – A London derby that promises to be an enthralling contest.
- Preston vs. Aston Villa – The Championship’s sole representative faces a stern test against Premier League opposition.
- Bournemouth vs. Manchester City – The defending Premier League champions continue their quest for silverware.
- Brighton vs. Nottingham Forest/Ipswich – Brighton awaits the winner of Monday’s fifth-round clash.
The quarter-finals are set to take place on the weekend of March 29-30, right after Premier League Matchweek 29, ensuring another weekend of top-tier football action.
With defending champions Manchester United out of the picture, the FA Cup is wide open, and every remaining team will believe that this could be their year to lift the prestigious trophy.