The second round of the English League Cup produced a massive upset as League Two side Grimsby defeated Premier League giants Manchester United to book their place in the third round.
This marks the first time in United’s history that they have been eliminated from a cup competition by a fourth-tier team, an embarrassing chapter for the Red Devils.
A Huge Gap in Strength
On paper, the gap between the two sides was enormous. United’s squad is valued at around €900 million, while Grimsby’s entire roster is worth only about €3.45 million.
Grimsby Strike First
Despite the disparity, it was the hosts who came out firing. In the 22nd minute, a mistake in United’s midfield allowed Grimsby to counter quickly. Burns delivered a diagonal cross, and Vernam controlled the ball before firing it into the net to make it 1–0.
Just eight minutes later, Grimsby attacked down the left flank. United goalkeeper Onana rushed out but misjudged the play, leaving Warren to slot the ball into an empty net for a 2–0 lead.
Man United Fight Back
Chasing the game, United made changes in the second half, bringing on Bruno Fernandes and Mbeumo to add attacking firepower. In the 75th minute, Mbeumo cut inside from the right and drilled a low shot past the keeper to pull one back.
With the game nearing its end, Mason Mount swung in a corner from the left, and Harry Maguire rose highest to head home, levelling the score at 2–2. After 90 minutes, the match went into penalties.
Penalty Shootout Drama
In the shootout, Onana managed to deny Odour in the third round, but Cunha’s weak effort in the fifth was easily saved by Grimsby keeper Pyme, leaving the score tied at 4–4. The duel dragged on into sudden death.
In the 13th round, Mbeumo struck the post, allowing Grimsby to clinch a dramatic 12–11 victory and advance to the third round.
Other Premier League Sides Progress Smoothly
While United suffered humiliation, other Premier League teams progressed without trouble.
Everton defeated League One’s Mansfield 2–0 at home, Fulham also won 2–0 against Championship side Bristol City, and Brighton demolished Oxford United 6–0 away from home. In sharp contrast, United’s performance was deeply disappointing.
United Facing Growing Pressure
The shock defeat made Grimsby the centre of attention, while piling even greater pressure on United.
With a poor start to the season and now a cup exit at the hands of lower-league opposition, both the manager and the players face intense scrutiny. The Red Devils desperately need to bounce back quickly in the league to steady the ship.
