The Championship side caused a huge upset. They won 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford to advance to the fifth round of the competition at the Red Devils’ expense. Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty early on, while Jadon Sancho and Bruno Fernandes saw shots come off the post. Manchester United were eventually made to pay for their profligacy.
In the second period, Boro caught them out on the break. Matt Crooks restored parity for the visitors in the 64th minute, but the ball came off his hand before he made the shot. However, the referee allowed the goal to stand, deeming the handball to be accidental.
Rangnick highlighted two particular aspects of the game that cost United - attacking inefficiency and a lack of counter-press in decisive moments. At a press conference ahead of United’s Premier League clash with Burnley, he said:
Lamenting Manchester United’s dismal performance, Rangnick added:
Manchester United need to put cup heartbreak behind them
Following their humiliating exit from the FA Cup, Manchester United need to regroup quickly when they travel to Burnley in the Premier League on Tuesday.
They’re unbeaten in their last three league games, including wins in their last two, and sit in fourth place, with two games in hand over third-placed Chelsea. In a further boost, Rangnick has Jesse Lingard and Edinson Cavani available for selection after the pair missed the Middlesbrough game.
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