"An incredible game, a strange game too" - Erik ten Hag reacts after Manchester United's penalty shootout win over Coventry in FA Cup S/F
After Manchester United bagged a 4-2 penalties win against Coventry City in the semi-finals of the FA Cup at Wembley Stadium, they're now set to face Manchester City in the finals on May 25, 2024.
In the post-match conference, United boss Erik ten Hag spoke about the game, saying:
“It was an incredible game, a strange game too. We had total control for so long and then gave it away in the last part of the game. We did show resilience to win the penalty shootout.”
Erik ten Hag's squad started the match strong, opening the scoring in the 23rd minute with midfielder Scott McTominay's goal, followed by centre-back Harry Maguire netting another just minutes before the end of the first half.
The Red Devils' Bruno Fernandes scored in the 58th minute. Coventry City's Ellis Simms netted the first goal for the EFL Championship club in the 71st minute, followed by another from Callum O'Hare just eight minutes later. Haji Wright scored the equaliser in 90+5 minutes with a penalty.
After a goalless extra time, the semi-finals advanced to a penalty shootout in which Manchester United was the first to kick. Casemiro missed the first penalty while Haji Wright was successful with his. Both Diogo Dalot and Victor Torp netted the second round. The Red Devils' Christian Eriksen and captain Bruno Fernandes scored the next two penalties while Coventry City missed theirs.
Rasmus Højlund successfully netted the decider, taking Manchester United to the finals of the FA Cup.
Manchester United's situation as FA Cup finalists
The Red Devils are seventh in the Premier League with 50 points in 31 matches. In their last five league fixtures, they have three draws, one loss, and one win. Although their points are tied with sixth-place Newcastle, United has a significant goal difference with the Magpies. Arsenal are on top of the league table with 74 points in 33 matches.
In their last league fixture, which was against A.F.C. Bournemouth last week, Erik ten Hag's squad ended the match in a 2-2 draw with Bruno Fernandes scoring twice.
Manchester United face Sheffield United next in the league on April 25, 2024, at their home ground, Old Trafford.