Manchester United FA Cup exit was confirmed after a third-round defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford. The loss ended United’s involvement in the competition and closed another domestic cup path during the 2025–26 season.
Manchester United FA Cup Exit at Old Trafford
Brighton defeated Manchester United 2-1 in the FA Cup third round. The match took place at Old Trafford in front of a home crowd. Brighton took an early lead through Brajan Gruda. Danny Welbeck, a former United striker, extended the advantage in the second half. United reduced the deficit late in the match through a headed goal by Benjamin Šeško. The goal did not change the outcome. United were eliminated from the FA Cup with the final whistle.
Brighton Progress as United Season Narrows
The Manchester United FA Cup exit means the club is now out of both domestic cup competitions this season. This marks the first time United have failed to progress in either domestic knockout tournament since the 1981–82 season. Brighton advanced to the fourth round. The victory allowed Brighton to continue their cup run and secure another away win against a top-flight opponent.
Key Moments and Match Developments
United finished the match with ten players. Teenager Shea Lacey received a red card late in the game. Brighton controlled large periods of play and limited United’s chances after taking the lead. The match followed a series of inconsistent results for United in recent weeks. Supporters expressed frustration inside the stadium as the game progressed.
Impact of the Manchester United FA Cup Exit
Following the Manchester United FA Cup exit, the club’s remaining focus is the Premier League. United must now rely on league performance to secure European qualification. Brighton will await their next FA Cup opponent after advancing from the third round. The result added pressure on United’s interim coaching staff and highlighted ongoing performance challenges during the season.
The FA Cup defeat followed a league draw earlier in the week. United’s schedule now shifts fully to domestic league fixtures for the remainder of the campaign.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/man-united-fa-cup-scores-83c394e34ef4c2713d628ef544a7d3a7
