Manchester United’s campaign in the Carabao Cup ended with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Brighton at Old Trafford. The match began with promise for United, as 19-year-old Shea Lacey scored on his first start for the club.
Brighton had been in strong form recently, having lost only one of their last five visits to Old Trafford and sitting fifth in the league, according to The Guardian. United took a two-goal lead inside the opening 10 minutes, but Brighton pulled one back before halftime. Mason Mount scored United's second goal in the 10th minute after Brighton goalkeeper Jason Steele saved Marcus Rashford's attempt.
Brighton’s first goal came just before the break from Charalampos Kostoulas, who found the net to give Brighton hope, according to a report from The Sporting News. United’s defense struggled in the second half as Pascal Gross equalized for Brighton after a mistake by Diogo Dalot.
Manager Michael Carrick’s side failed to respond effectively as the game spiraled out of control. Late substitutions were made in an attempt to revive United’s hopes, including Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha.
Despite these efforts, Brighton managed to score the winning goal through Maxim De Cuyper in the 69th minute. The loss marked a disappointing end to United’s Carabao Cup journey and added to recent struggles for the club, ESPN reported.
The defeat marked the first time in 50 years that Manchester United lost at Old Trafford after taking a two-goal lead. The previous occurrence came against Tottenham in September 1976.
This was not just a one-off setback, as United had already faced criticism after a poor performance in the Manchester derby while supporter protests added to tension around the club. Hundreds of supporters protested outside Old Trafford before the derby over the club's ticket policies and ownership.
United entered the cup tie 13th in the Premier League with four points from their first four matches. They had won only one league game before facing Brighton.
United’s performance in the second half was marked by confusion and lack of control, especially when facing Brighton’s counterattacks. Brighton capitalized on United’s defensive lapses, with several chances created in the second half that were not properly dealt with.
The match ended with United’s fans disappointed and their manager left searching for solutions after another poor display. Loud boos were heard at the final whistle and Carrick accepted responsibility for the collapse.
The defeat left United without a win in their last three domestic games. Carrick said the team now needed to respond when it travels to face Fulham in the Premier League.
The result leaves United in a difficult position as they continue to try and rebuild their form after a turbulent start to the campaign.