Manchester United 1–2 Brighton: Red Devils Crumble as Seagulls Soar at Old Trafford
Manchester United’s FA Cup hopes ended in frustration as Brighton secured a deserved 2–1 victory at Old Trafford. The defeat summed up a season filled with inconsistency and unanswered questions for the Red Devils.https://www.skysports.com/football
Brighton arrived with confidence and left with history. They outplayed United for large spells and showed greater tactical clarity from start to finish.
Brighton Strike First and Take Control
Brighton started the game on the front foot. Their high pressing unsettled United early and forced mistakes in dangerous areas.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute. Brajan Gruda reacted fastest to a loose ball in the box and calmly finished past André Onana.
United struggled to respond. Possession meant little as Brighton controlled the tempo and shape of the match.
Welbeck Punishes His Former Club
The second half followed a similar pattern. Brighton stayed compact and waited for openings.
Danny Welbeck doubled the lead in the 64th minute. The former United striker finished clinically after a swift counterattack. Old Trafford fell silent.
It was a goal that reflected Brighton’s efficiency and United’s defensive lapses.https://www.skysports.com/football
Late Fightback Falls Short
United finally showed urgency late in the game. In the 85th minute, Benjamin Šeško headed home from a Bruno Fernandes corner to give the hosts hope.
However, the momentum didn’t last. A late red card ended United’s push and sealed their elimination from the FA Cup.
Brighton saw out the final minutes with composure and discipline.https://soccercrib.com.ng/
Tactical Breakdown: Why Brighton Deserved the Win
Brighton executed their game plan perfectly. They pressed high, blocked central spaces, and attacked quickly in transition.
United lacked structure in midfield. The gaps between defense and attack were obvious throughout the match.
Brighton looked like the better-coached side. United looked reactive and disjointed.
What This Result Means
Manchester United
This defeat raises fresh concerns. United are out of another competition and still searching for identity.
Key players underperformed. Leadership was missing when it mattered most.
Brighton
This was a statement victory. Brighton showed belief, organization, and maturity.
They move forward with confidence and growing respect across English football.
Final Thoughts
Brighton didn’t rely on luck. They earned this win through structure, discipline, and courage.
Manchester United, once again, relied on moments rather than a clear plan.
On the night, the better won