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Man Utd beat Brighton on penalties to book FA Cup final spot

Manchester United advanced to the FA Cup final on penalties and will return to Wembley in June to face their loud neighbors.

The game couldn’t be decided in 90 minutes, despite both teams having purple periods with the ball, and chances were scarce. The Seagulls had the best of the action as they sought a third consecutive victory over United after victories earlier this season and last.

The game became further stretched throughout extra time, which followed a common pattern. Robert Sanchez stopped a deflected shot from Marcus Rashford, as the Seagulls continued to waste their good positions with sloppy touches and pass.

The game, which had appeared set for penalties for some time, ended up going that way. It went to sudden death after an exhibition of spot kicks, with the first 10 all scored before Solly March missed the crucial penalty kick, allowing Victor Lindelof to take the headline moment.

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Here are five topics to consider from Wembley.

1. The cup double is on

Hopes of a three-trophy season were ended in midweek when Sevilla tore United apart in Spain, but a promising first season under Erik ten Hag remains on the cards with both domestic cups now within their grasp.

Manchester City stands between the Red Devils and their first FA Cup since 2016, but they’ve shown they can beat their local rivals and have already tasted success at Wembley this season, while they might also derail City’s treble hopes.

A top-four finish is coming closer, and that, along with two pieces of silverware, would imply United is on the right track, albeit with some kinks to work out. A Manchester Derby is final would pique the interest of spectators, and a red ribbon on the trophy would be a wonderful foundation upon which the team could grow.

2. On the spot

The last time United took part in a semi-final penalty shootout was in 2009 against Everton when the Toffees ended their hopes in the competition. Last term it was Middlesbrough who took advantage of spot kicks to end their hopes – so it is fair to say United and penalties haven’t always mixed well.

They were able to buck that trend however as Solly March missed the crucial penalty, which allowed the Manchester outfit to take advantage. United was far from at their vintage best during the 120 minutes but showed they had it in them to handle the pressure moments when the time came.

The Red Devils had lost seven of their last eight shootouts but will be happy to amend that stat.

3. No cutting edge is still an issue

United’s urgency was highlighted in midweek when a half-fit Rashford was sent on against Sevilla to provide much-needed firepower. The forward has had his greatest season ever, but there is far too much reliance on him.

Fernandes creates the rare moment because he craves a long-range effort. However, given the caliber of the players on the field, United should be a much more dangerous threat in the final third, but that simply isn’t the case. Antony, whose price tag remains high, must generate more.

The game’s trend was generally one of Brighton putting pressure and United struggling to return serve, with their players apparently unable to pose any significant – and persistent – danger, with their finest moments coming primarily on the counter.

4. De Gea’s limitations remain

Much was made on Thursday night, as it has been all season, of the Spaniard’s inability to play with his feet as his manager would like. His passing and decision-making cost United twice in the loss at Sevilla, which led to questions over his long-term suitability.

De Gea’s contract is winding down in Manchester, leaving the club with a decision to make. The goalkeeper is keen to remain but displays like the one at Wembley may not help his cause. Whilst Brighton dominated the ball, with their No 1 getting involved in their build-up play, the Red Devils continued to go long.

That was largely down to De Gea’s route 1 tactics with the goalkeeper’s first option often being a long punt downfield, with United not having the players to suit that direct style.

5. Brighton is here to stay

They don’t care if they lose managers or important players; they just keep going. Brighton has long been lauded for their club operations, often punching above their weight. This term, though, they have achieved by far their best season-long performance.

Europe beckons for the Seagulls, who may lose one or two of their prized players this summer, while their manager will also draw interest. They were the better team for large portions of their semi-final, controlling possession versus United.

They appear to be very comfortable in their own skin, and their midseason manager change may make them even more entertaining to watch. It remains to be seen whether Amex’s personnel changes occur, but the decision-makers are more than competent, and seeing them in the latter stages of competitions like this could well become a regular thing.