Ilkay Gundogan scores within seconds of kick-off. Stefan Ortega’s goalkick clearance is intercepted by Erling Haaland, who then heads the ball down to Ilkay. The German midfielder did not make a mistake when he smashed it into the top-right corner. It was the fastest FA Cup goal ever scored by a midfielder. Manchester City won 1-0.
Erik Ten Hag’s side has their first extended period of possession so far in the match, but it ends when referee Paul Tierney judges Bruno Fernandes to have committed an offence. United’s attempts to advance saw the ball change hands numerous times. They are showing good intensity, but not enough quality to stop Man City.
Rodri headed De Bruyne’s cross into the corner net. The Red Devils had been ripped apart by City. After 24 minutes, Manchester United created a promising opportunity with some brilliant interplay. Rashford, however, heads the ball wide following a Casemiro cross. The Red Devils would soon be rewarded with a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes calmly slotted into the bottom left corner.
Fans react to Ilkay Gundogan’s fastest FA Cup goal
Sky Blues dominate the match statistics but they all looked the same after the Portuguese goal from the penalty spot. United have improved since then. Raphael Varane headed over a corner after Cristian Ericsen flicked it on. It is looking good and the run will be fierce.
In the second half, both coaches will make big decisions as they try to cancel each other out. Both teams will be determined to win the domestic double, and they will do their best in the next 45-minutes. Both captains scored goals in the first 45 minutes and will motivate their respective teams to give more.
