Penalty disaster for Man United as Fulham knocks them out of FA Cup

Last season’s FA Cup winners Manchester United will not defend their title after losing on penalties to Fulham in the round of 16.

Fulham came close to scoring in the 38th minute with a well-worked attack from the left. Sasha Lukic found himself in an excellent position to head home but sent his effort over the crossbar.

The hosts took the lead in first-half stoppage time. Andreas Pereira delivered a superb corner, picking out Rodrigo Muniz, who nodded the ball towards the far post. Calvin Bassey was perfectly positioned to head it past Andre Onana, giving Fulham a 1-0 lead.

United pushed for an equalizer in the second half and found it in the 71st minute. Alejandro Garnacho set up Diogo Dalot, whose precise cross found Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder placed a first-time shot into the far corner, leaving Bernd Leno helpless and leveling the score at 1-1.

United had a golden opportunity to win the match in the ninth minute of stoppage time when Joshua Zirkzee sent Garnacho through on goal. The Argentine controlled well and fired a shot, but Leno reacted superbly to make the save and force extra time.

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In the 110th minute, Ryan Sessegnon dribbled into the box and created a shooting opportunity, but Onana was alert to deny him. Willian then tested the United goalkeeper with a free kick in the 120th minute, but his effort was comfortably saved.

Unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/Avt0Ne1IGu

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) March 2, 2025

With neither team able to break the deadlock, the match went to penalties. Fulham converted all their spot-kicks, while Victor Lindelof missed United’s third attempt before Zirkzee also failed to score, sealing Fulham’s victory and eliminating United from the competition.