Marcus Rashford has called Manchester United’s 4-3 win over Liverpool ‘a massive game in the history’ of the club.
Erik ten Hag’s team reached the FA Cup semi-finals after a thrilling tie at Old Trafford, with the Red Devils snatching the win in the last seconds of extra time. An end-to-end game saw the momentum swing between both teams, in an epic instalment of their fierce rivalry.
Scott McTominay poked Manchester United ahead inside 10 minutes after a bright start from the home side, only for Liverpool to grow into the game. Two goals in three minutes before half-time saw Liverpool lead at the interval, as Alexis Mac Allister equalised with a deflected effort and Mohamed Salah turned in from a rebound.
Both teams missed good chances after the break and Liverpool were punished for their wastefulness, as substitute Antony spun and scored on 87 minutes, forcing extra time at Old Trafford.
Liverpool retook the lead in extra time and looked to be heading through, after Harvey Elliott’s long-range effort deflected past Andre Onana. United, however, refused to be beaten and equalised for a second time. Darwin Nunez’s slack pass was punished as McTominay played in Marcus Rashford to turn home.
With penalties looming, Manchester United snatched the win. Liverpool were undone on the counter-attack with Alejandro Garnacho racing away to set up Amad Diallo for a 120th-minute winner.
The Ivorian’s finish found the far corner to spark wild scenes inside Old Trafford, as the Red Devils kept their season alive and ended Liverpool’s hopes of a quadruple.
“Listen to the noise, you can tell what a big game it is, a huge occasion. I haven’t had the season I wanted but night likes this at Old Trafford are what it’s all about,” Rashford told ITV.
“I had to score that chance at the end, I wish it was done half an hour ago but we got the job done and we have to get something out of this season.
“Today represents what it always has to me, it’s a massive game in the history of Manchester United. It gets us through to a semi-final but even a normal game against Liverpool we have to win.
“Amad Diallo has been working hard, he hasn’t had the opportunities he wants and there’s no better way to push for more than nights like this.”
Bruno Fernandes admitted this was a big result for Manchester United after a below-par season and said FA Cup success is the target for the team.
“We have a young squad, they need time and when they have the chance to play they have to show they have the quality to play for Manchester United. We always have belief, the problem is we have not been consistent with our performances.
“We give 100% we always give everything but at this club we always have to have high standards. It’s a part of the game to be criticised, that’s why you play for Manchester United.
“This season has not been at the level we want but we want to improve. We have always said our goal was to get into the top four and try to win the FA Cup, we will do all we can for those goals. The FA Cup is a big trophy for this club.”
