Manchester United have had a slow WSL season, but they have been on form and exciting in the FA Cup.
The first game was in the fourth round against Newcastle. Newcastle brought an expressive away contingent of supporters and impressed everyone. That being said, Man United women won convincingly 5-0, and a Batman-like mask-wearing Ella Toone did an iconic superhero celebration.
The fifth round was against Championship side Southampton. Man United went 1-0 up early on, thanks to a goal by Ella Toone. Southampton equalized in the 65th minute but could not hold on or get a winner, as Man United’s Rachel Williams scored a brace to give the Reds a 3-1 victory.
The quarter-final was at Brighton, and Man United had another early goal from Millie Turner. There were three more in the first half, with Nikita Paris and Lucía García getting a goal each. Lisa Naalsund sealed the game with a fourth in the 59th minute.
The biggest game of the 23/24 season for Manchester United in the semi-final was against the formidable Chelsea. After losing the final to the Blues last year and every other match ever played against Chelsea, this game had extra levels of meaning. As has been the case in most FA Cup games for Man United this season, the game opened with an early goal by Lucía García. United was 2-0 up in the 23rd minute with a goal from Rachel Williams. Lauren James scored in the 4th minute of stoppage time to make it 2-1 at the half. Mary Earps showed why she has won so many awards and is considered the best goalkeeper in the world in the second half. She made big save after big save, ultimately leading to Leigh Sports Village singing with pride.
Manchester United women, displaying remarkable resilience and determination, are heading to the FA Cup final for the second year in a row. They have achieved a significant milestone by defeating Chelsea for the first time in all competitions. Despite having only 5 shots and 2 on target, compared to Chelsea’s 26 shots and 8 on target, and possessing only 30% of the ball compared to Chelsea’s 70%, they emerged victorious. This victory is a testament to the team’s grit, desire, and hunger for success. And of course, having a goalkeeper like Mary Earps, who consistently delivers outstanding performances, doesn’t hurt either!
Just a week after the thrilling semi-final, Manchester United faced Tottenham, their final opponent on May 12th. The game ended in a 2-2 draw, setting the stage for an even more exciting final. The only disappointment is that Grace Clinton, who has been a standout performer this season, cannot play as she is a Manchester United player on loan to Tottenham.
With two finalists who have never won this year’s FA Cup, the final is historic and incredibly exciting for the teams and women’s football. The fact that Wembley Stadium is already sold out and a record-breaking crowd is expected only adds to the anticipation and thrill of the event.
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