Manchester United are into FA Cup semi-finals after a dramatic game at home to Liverpool, which went to extra time.
Here is a look at six things we learned from the game…
Amad’s big moment
The biggest moment of Amad’s career came in the 120th minute of the game, with a truly memorable winning strike.
Amad’s first Manchester United goal since 2021 came as he executed a perfect counter-attacking move to clinch a 4-3 win.
He was sent off in the ensuing celebrations – but frankly – who cares?
What a moment. Amad is the hero and for this alone, his transfer fee is worth every penny.
Scott McTominay miss bigger than his goal
Scott McTominay opened the scoring for Manchester United with an early strike after a strong team move. He was in the right place at the right time to net from close range after Alejandro Garnacho‘s shot was saved, into his path.
His goal send Old Trafford wild, and another opportunity came his way later in the fast half. After great work from Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford cut the ball back into McTominay’s path for a shot at goal – he missed.
McTominay’s effort was too central and was saved by the goalkeeper, and a great chance to put Manchester United 2-0 up.
This was a pivotal moment, with Liverpool subsequently upping their game and scoring two goals at the end of the first half to enter the break 2-1 up.
United went toe to toe with Liverpool and proved they could compete – but you have to take your chances.
Antony finally steps up, and so does Rashford
Trailing 2-1, Manchester United brought on Antony and Harry Maguire. You probably would not have expected this to make much of a difference.
Yet with five minutes to go, Antony produced a big moment, one to salvage United’s chances in the game, and possibly his career at the club.
He turned smartly inside the penalty box and struck low into the net to equalise, forcing extra time.
The substitutions seemed to work, with United fighting back into the game when the team had been wilting, looking like they were slinking towards a meek defeat.
United should have won it in normal time too, with Marcus Rashford missing from close range in the final 30 seconds.
Rashford atoned for this in extra-time, scoring an equaliser to take it to 3-3.
Rasmus Hojlund struggles on return
It was great to see Rasmus Hojlund back in the team, but he was barely noticeable upon his return from injury.
Hojlund did not land a single shot on or off target, and managed only 13 touches, before he was substituted off in the 71st minute.
Part of this was due to him being starved of service, especially in the second half where United struggled to get possession of the ball.
Kobbie Mainoo is special
Casemiro‘s absence was a blow for United and upped the pressure on youngster Kobbie Mainoo to produce. He stepped up.
Mainoo was magnificent in midfield, he was born to play at this level. His ability in possession saw him regularly jink and shift past his opponents and create space for his teammates.
At only 18, there is a lot more to come from Mainoo. This performance was further evidence that the Manchester United team of the future must be built around him.
What he needs is more help around him. Liverpool were able to exploit the gaps in United’s midfield and take advantage for large stretches.
Mainoo wasn’t the only youngster to impress. Amad really shone during his substitute performance, even before his goal.
Trophy chances
The FA Cup was Manchester United’s only remaining hope to win a trophy this season, making this game an absolute must win.
Erik ten Hag’s hope to win silverware during this difficult second season as manager remains alive.
United are still in the race to qualify for the Champions League, aided by a Tottenham loss and Aston Villa draw this weekend.
But it’s not the same as being in the mix for a trophy. And the hope lives on.