This season’s FA Cup quarter finals reached its climax at Old Trafford with the blockbuster clash between Manchester United and Liverpool. It would take extra time to separate the two sides but eventually Manchester United would book their place in the semi-finals at Wembley.
Here are five things we learned from the frantic match
Klopp’s Quadruple Hunt Ends
In late January, Jürgen Klopp announced that this season would be his last with Liverpool. Since that moment, Liverpool have been aiming to send him off in the best way possible. As Liverpool have remained competing in all four of their competitions, talk of a potential quadruple has gained much traction. However, today is the day that Liverpool’s and Klopp’s quadruple aspirations have been ended at the hands of their greatest rivals. Although it may not be the dream ending for Klopp at Liverpool, his side still has plenty to play for this season.
Ten Hag Trophy Hope Remains
After a successful first season in charge, things have been significantly more challenging for Erik ten Hag in his second season as Manchester United boss. Pressure has been put on the manager on numerous occasions during this campaign but today’s victory means that there is still hope that this season can be remembered for the right reasons by Manchester United fans. A victory over Liverpool is huge for any Manchester United and ten Hag will hope it can help build momentum so that his side can go on to win the whole competition.
Rashford’s Redemption
Marcus Rashford had a golden opportunity to win the tie with what was quite literally the last kick of the 90 minutes. The England forward was played through on goal by Christian Eriksen with just seconds remaining but his right footed shot went just wide of the post. Rashford had the opportunity to send Manchester United through without extra time, and would surely have felt responsible when Liverpool regained the lead of the match in extra time. However, Rashford was handed the opportunity to redeem himself in the 112th minute and he made no mistake. He converted his chance to equalise the game, allowing Manchester United to go on and win the tie.
Salah’s Return
Today saw Mo Salah’s first start in a domestic game since New Year’s Day. The Egyptian star had been sidelined with a hamstring injury that he picked up on international duty at the AFCON in January. His return ended in the 75th minute, with his goal standing as the difference between the two sides when he left the field.
Amad Diallo the match winner
Amad Diallo enjoyed a prosperous loan spell at Sunderland last season but has struggled for minutes since his return to Old Trafford. Despite playing just 48 minutes in the Premier League so far this season, Diallo was subbed on with just 5 minutes of regulation time remaining. Antony’s goal would send the game to extra time and it was in this period that Diallo would have his moment. In the 121st minute, as penalties loomed, Garnacho broke forward and found Diallo just inside the penalty area. The Ivorian youngster slotted the ball home off the inside of the post and won the match for United.
