Harry Maguire completed his redemption arc with a dramatic 93rd-minute winner as Manchester United edged past Leicester City in the FA Cup. Rising high to meet Bruno Fernandes’s deep free-kick, the defender’s header sealed the victory, though replays suggested he was offside. Without VAR to intervene, the goal stood, sparking wild celebrations at Old Trafford.
Before Maguire’s late heroics, Joshua Zirkzee’s 67th-minute equalizer had given United a lifeline in a match where they struggled against a relegation-threatened Leicester side. Bobby De Cordova-Reid had opened the scoring in the first half, punishing a disjointed United team that lacked cohesion under Ruben Amorim. Leicester, despite their underdog status, played with more intent and looked set to force a replay until United’s late resurgence.
Defensive frailties plagued United early on, as Patson Daka breezed past Leny Yoro and Maguire to set up Jordan Ayew, whose powerful shot was well saved by André Onana. Leicester continued to threaten, with Luke Thomas and Wilfred Ndidi both testing the home defense. Amorim’s side struggled to create openings, relying on Patrick Dorgu’s energetic bursts on the right flank for any attacking impetus.
Dorgu, making his debut after a £25 million move from Lecce, showed promise with his pace and versatility but was substituted at halftime for Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine winger’s introduction instantly injected urgency into United’s play, as his driving runs stretched Leicester’s defense. His influence was pivotal in the equalizer, creating the opening for Rasmus Højlund’s blocked shot before Zirkzee capitalized on the rebound.
Leicester, managed by Ruud van Nistelrooy, continued to pose a threat. El Khannouss orchestrated several dangerous moves, weaving past United’s midfield with ease. Amorim’s team lacked fluidity, struggling to impose themselves against opponents who sit third-bottom in the Premier League. The frustration among home fans was palpable, with jeers ringing out at halftime.
With time running out, United pushed forward desperately. Garnacho missed a golden chance to set up a winner, but Maguire ensured his side progressed with a late header, meeting Fernandes’s delivery. Leicester players protested, arguing Maguire was offside, and replays supported their claims, but the absence of VAR meant the decision stood.
After the match, Maguire reflected on the dramatic finish, admitting United’s first-half performance was below par but crediting the team’s resilience in the second half. His goal not only secured passage to the next round but also continued his personal turnaround from being considered surplus to requirements to a match-winner on a crucial night.
While United celebrated, Leicester were left frustrated, feeling undone by a controversial decision. For Amorim, concerns remain despite the victory, as his side’s defensive issues and inconsistency threaten their ambitions this season.
