Manchester United Shocks Manchester City in Thrilling FA Cup Final by 2-1

Manchester United delivered their finest performance of a challenging season to defeat Manchester City 2-1 in the FA Cup final on Saturday, preventing their rivals from securing a double. Goals from teenagers Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo gave United a commanding lead by halftime at Wembley, and they weathered a relentless City assault in the second half to claim their 13th FA Cup trophy.

“I am just focusing on the job I have to do and that is first win the game on Saturday and then we are in the project,” Ten Hag said when quizzed on his future. “Keep going in the project. I came here to win trophies and Saturday is another opportunity.”

City, the reigning Premier League champions, were attempting to become the first club to win the double in consecutive seasons. However, they were far from their best in the first half and handed United the lead in the 30th minute when Garnacho capitalized on a defensive error to tap home. United doubled their advantage before the break as Mainoo finished with composure following an excellent team move.

Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were the heroes as Manchester United clinched a thrilling 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City to win the 2024 FA Cup, shattering Pep Guardiola’s hopes for a double.

From the outset, the Red Devils were well-organized and dangerous on the counterattack. They took the lead half an hour into the match when Garnacho pounced on a disastrous mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol, calmly slotting the ball into an empty net.

The situation improved even further for Erik ten Hag’s team just nine minutes later. A brilliant combination play involving Marcus Rashford, Garnacho, and Bruno Fernandes culminated in Mainoo striking a superb first-time shot past the goalkeeper.

Manchester City, aiming to be the first team to secure consecutive league and FA Cup doubles, struggled to find their rhythm for much of the game. They did come close when Erling Haaland struck the crossbar in the 55th minute.

As the second half progressed, City intensified their efforts and finally found a breakthrough three minutes later. Substitute Jeremy Doku squeezed a 20-yard shot past Andre Onana at the near post.

However, it was too late for the Premier League champions. Manchester United held firm to avenge their defeat in last year’s final, securing a memorable victory over their neighbours.