Manchester United faced a bitter exit from the Carabao Cup after throwing away a commanding lead to lose 3-2 against Brighton at Old Trafford. The defeat marks a historic low for the Red Devils, who have not experienced a home loss after holding a two-goal advantage in any competition since 1976, when they were defeated 3-2 by Tottenham.
The match began with promise for the hosts as Shea Lacey, making his first start after being promoted from the academy, opened the scoring. Mason Mount added a second goal just ten minutes later, appearing to put United in total control. However, the momentum shifted just before halftime when Charalampos Kostoulas pulled a goal back for Brighton, setting the stage for a dramatic second-half comeback from the visitors.
Brighton ramped up the pressure after the break, and United’s defense proved unable to contain the surge. Pascal Gross leveled the score, and substitute Maxim De Cuyper eventually secured the winner, leaving the home supporters visibly frustrated as they jeered the team at the final whistle. This loss is particularly significant as it is the first time United have surrendered a two-goal lead at home in all competitions since the inception of the Premier League era in the 1992-93 season.
The pressure is mounting on coach Michael Carrick, especially following a controversial defeat to Manchester City just three days prior. The club’s struggles extend beyond the cup competition, as they currently sit 13th in the Premier League table, having managed only one win and one draw from their opening four matches. The elimination leaves the squad in a difficult position as they seek to regain form.
