Manchester United progressed to the semi-finals of the FA Cup with an unimpressive 2-0 win at home vs Brighton and Hove Albion. The Red Devils join Spurs in the last 4 as they continue to try and win the only trophy they can contend for this season.
Brighton set up to frustrate United and were largely successful as United to create clear opportunities at goal, with Smalling going closest, striking the post from a corner. However, a sublime cross from Matic afforded Lukaku a chance and the Belgian made no mistake as he powered a header past Krul from close range. The second half followed a similar pattern with Brighton maintaining a threat on the break and from distance, with Romero kept busy between the sticks. Matic ensured the win 7 minutes from time with a well-placed header to send United to their second semi-final in 7 years.
Sergio Romero- 8/10
Made a couple of excellent saves and did well to hold on to any long shots to not allow the Brighton attackers any scraps.
Antonio Valencia- 6.5/10
Defensively decent whenever tested but final ball in the final third poor. A bad header allowed Locadia to take a brilliant shot that had to be saved by Romero.
Chris Smalling- 7/10
Not tested much but did his job well when needed.
Eric Bailly- 7/10
Similar to Smalling, stepped out of defence whenever necessary.
Luke Shaw- 7.5/10
Defensively sound and made good runs forward, cutting the ball back for Matic to cross the ball to Lukaku. Curiously subbed off at halftime.
Scott McTominay- 6/10
Kept it simple but misplaced a few passes and got caught in possession once in a dangerous area.
Nemanja Matic- 9/10
MOTM performance. Superb all over the pitch, and notched up an assist and a goal in the same game for the first time since 2014.
Juan Mata- 6.5/10
Got in decent positions, but faded away as the game progressed.
Jesse Lingard- 7/10
Passed well and picked up the ball in good positions to initiate attacks. Subdued second half, though.
Anthony Martial- 5.5/10
The Frenchman had a game to forget as he failed to beat his man time and again and couldn’t make the killer pass. Bar one 1-2 with Mata, terrible game from him.
Romelu Lukaku- 6.5/10
Took his goal well but didn’t show nearly enough of his vastly improved hold up play and passing. Was let down by some sloppy passes and touches.
SUBSTITUTES
Ashley Young (Shaw 45’) – 7/10
Good going forward and set up Matic’s goal with a delicious cross.
Marcus Rashford (Mata 75’) – 5.5/10
Struggled to influence the game.
