In an electrifying FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium, Manchester United emerged victorious over their city rivals Manchester City with a 2-1 win. Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo secured the triumph for the Red Devils, marking a significant achievement in their storied history.

Match Overview

Line-ups and Tactics

Manchester City, under the management of Pep Guardiola, fielded their strongest lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation:

• Forwards: Erling Haaland led the attack.
• Midfield: Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva provided the creative force behind Haaland.
• Central Midfielders: Rodri and Mateo Kovacic anchored the midfield.
• Defence: The back four included Kyle Walker, Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Josko Gvardiol.

Manchester United, guided by Erik ten Hag, opted for an unconventional 4-2-2-2 formation:

• Central Defence: Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez.
• Fullbacks: Aaron Wan-Bissaka on the right and Diogo Dalot on the left.
• Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo and Sofyan Amrabat controlled the central areas.
• Attack: Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho played just ahead of midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay, who occupied advanced positions.

First Half: A Balanced Battle

The match began with both teams testing each other’s defenses. Manchester City, known for their possession-based style, controlled the ball but found it difficult to penetrate United’s well-organized defense. United, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, utilizing the pace and skill of Rashford and Garnacho.

Key Moments:

• 15th Minute: Manchester City had their first real chance when Kevin De Bruyne’s powerful shot was brilliantly saved by United’s goalkeeper.
• 27th Minute: Manchester United broke the deadlock. Garnacho received a well-timed pass from Fernandes, dribbled past Kyle Walker, and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, giving United a 1-0 lead.

Second Half: Turning Points

Manchester City came out stronger in the second half, pushing for an equalizer. However, United’s defense remained resilient, and their midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt City’s rhythm.

Equalizer:

• 52nd Minute: Erling Haaland showcased his poaching abilities, pouncing on a loose ball in the box and firing it past the United keeper to level the score at 1-1.

Winning Goal:

• 68th Minute: United regained their lead in spectacular fashion. Kobbie Mainoo, demonstrating composure beyond his years, found space just outside the box and unleashed a thunderous strike that left City’s goalkeeper with no chance, making it 2-1 to United.

Tactical Mastery

Erik ten Hag’s tactical ingenuity was evident throughout the match. His decision to use a 4-2-2-2 formation allowed United to crowd the midfield and limit the influence of City’s playmakers. The youthful exuberance and tactical discipline of Mainoo and Amrabat provided a solid foundation in the midfield, while the pace and creativity of Rashford and Garnacho posed constant threats on the flanks.

Individual Performances

Manchester United:

• Alejandro Garnacho: The young forward was instrumental in United’s victory. His goal and overall play were a testament to his burgeoning talent.
• Kobbie Mainoo: The midfielder’s winning goal was a highlight, but his work rate and distribution were equally impressive.
• Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez: The defensive duo was rock-solid, thwarting numerous City attacks.

Manchester City:

• Erling Haaland: Despite being on the losing side, Haaland’s goal and physical presence troubled United’s defense.
• Kevin De Bruyne: The Belgian maestro tried to dictate play but found it challenging against United’s compact midfield.

Post-Match Reactions

Erik ten Hag (Manchester United Manager):

“We executed our game plan perfectly. The players showed great determination and discipline. This victory is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”

Pep Guardiola (Manchester City Manager):

“We played well, but in finals, small margins make the difference. Congratulations to Manchester United. We will come back stronger.”

Players:

• Alejandro Garnacho: “Scoring in the FA Cup final is a dream come true. I’m proud of the team and this victory is for our fans.”
• Kobbie Mainoo: “Winning the FA Cup with a goal is surreal. We believed in ourselves and delivered on the pitch.”

Conclusion

Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup 2023/24 final will be remembered as a classic encounter. The tactical brilliance of Erik ten Hag, coupled with the spirited performances of young talents like Garnacho and Mainoo, highlighted the depth and potential within the United squad. As they celebrate this triumph, the Red Devils have set a strong foundation for future success.

In contrast, Manchester City will look to regroup and learn from this defeat. Their journey in the FA Cup ends in disappointment, but their ambitions in other competitions remain intact. The 2023/24 FA Cup final showcased the very best of English football, with both teams delivering a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come.