Manchester United’s FA Cup dreams came to a crushing end on March 2, 2025, as they were eliminated by Fulham during a dramatic penalty shootout at Old Trafford. The 13-time FA Cup winners, who previously aimed to defend their title, fell short as Fulham triumphed 4-3 on penalties, marking the end of their silverware aspirations this season.
The match began with intense anticipation, but it was Fulham’s Nigerian defender, Calvin Bassey, who broke the deadlock just before halftime. Bassey seized the moment after Andreas Pereira's corner kick was flicked on, heading the ball home to silence the Old Trafford crowd. “Bassey has his first FA Cup goal in his first-ever FA Cup game for Fulham,” tweeted the Emirates FA Cup shortly after the goal.
United responded vigorously, with captain Bruno Fernandes equalizing at the 71st minute. Fernandes unleashed a stunning low shot from outside the box, finding the bottom corner and giving Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, no chance. The teams went back and forth, but after 120 intense minutes of play, the match ended 1-1, necessitating penalties to determine the winner.
Despite their previous accolades, United faced significant challenges during the shootout. Leno emerged as the hero for Fulham, saving two penalties from Joshua Zirkzee and Victor Lindelof. Fulham succeeded with four of their penalties, sending them through to the quarter-finals and marking their first FA Cup quarter-final appearance since 2016.
Fulham's head coach, Marco Silva, expressed pride about the team’s performance. “We showed good moments,” Silva stated, stating they were 'brave' and stuck to their game plan. Fans celebrated as the traveling supporters made their way back to London, enjoying the unexpected yet exhilarating win.
Calvin Bassey’s goal was more than just pivotal; it highlighted the defender’s knack for finding the net against United, making him their favorite opponent. “Manchester United can now be regarded as Calvin Bassey’s favourite opponent,” reported ANS. His two goals against them represent his highest tally against any team since turning professional.
Bassey had not only made his mark offensively but had also significantly contributed defensively, maintaining composure against United's attacking threats, particularly keeping renowned striker Rasmus Hojlund at bay. Commentators praised his impactful performance, highlighting his strength and physical play, which proved integral to securing Fulham's advancement.
Following the penalty drama, there were mixed emotions from the United camp. Manager Ruben Amorim reflected on the match: “Today it was not our day,” he remarked, recognizing the harsh reality of penalties after managing to equalize late. United began their FA Cup campaign with hopes of repeating as champions but now must recalibrate their focus on the Premier League.
Fulham’s victory not only amassed significant attention but also positioned them strategically for the upcoming quarter-finals against Crystal Palace, another London club. This matchup promises to be competitive, as Silva is eager to explore his squad’s potential against their local rivals.
The defeat marks yet another disappointment for Manchester United, whose attempts to reclaim dominance have met various hurdles this season. Meanwhile, for Fulham, the win has energized their campaign, providing momentum as they continue to chase success on multiple fronts.
This match was more than just about progressing to the next round; it solidified Bassey’s reputation within the squad, proving he is becoming increasingly indispensable to Fulham’s ambitions. The former Rangers star can take this momentum forward as he aims to shine during Nigeria's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
With the victory, Fulham fans are hopeful their side can capitalize on the incredible momentum and push for glory across the remainder of the season.