In a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester United faced Brighton & Hove Albion in the 2025-26 English FA Cup third round. The match saw an intense battle unfold between the two sides, with Brighton coming out on top with a 2-1 victory. The game was marked by standout performances from Benjamin Sesko and Shea Lacey, who scored crucial goals for Brighton, while Brajan Gruda and former Manchester United player Danny Welbeck found the net for the home side.
The match started with a formation of 4-2-3-1 for Manchester United and 4-2-3-1 for Brighton. Both teams fielded strong line-ups, with key players like Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount on the pitch for Manchester United, and exciting talents like Sesko and Cunha for Brighton. The game was officiated by referee Simon Hooper.
Brighton's victory came as a shock to many, as Manchester United were considered strong favorites going into the match. The loss meant that United were knocked out of the FA Cup, marking a disappointing early exit from the prestigious competition. Welbeck's goal against his former club added an extra layer of drama to the encounter, further highlighting the unpredictability of cup competitions.
The match timeline detailed the key moments, including Sesko's late goal in the 85th minute followed by Lacey's winner in the 89th minute. The commentary described the intensity of the game, with chances at both ends and crucial saves by the goalkeepers. The final result saw Brighton advancing to the next round, leaving Manchester United to contemplate their early elimination.
In other FA Cup news, Norwich's Josh Sargent made headlines for refusing to play in a match but was confirmed to stay at the club despite the incident. The English FA Cup continues to provide thrilling moments and surprises, showcasing the unpredictable nature of cup football.
The post-match statistics highlighted key metrics such as possession, shots on goal, and corner kicks, giving insights into the teams' performances. Despite Manchester United's efforts, it was Brighton who emerged victorious on the day, proving that in football, anything can happen on any given matchday.
Overall, the FA Cup clash between Manchester United and Brighton showcased the competitive spirit and unpredictability that makes football such a captivating sport. The tournament continues to produce memorable moments and remains a platform for underdogs to shine and established teams to face unexpected challenges, adding to the allure of one of the oldest and most prestigious cup competitions in world football.