Manchester United’s FA Cup journey came to an abrupt end on Sunday, as they suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Fulham at Old Trafford.
The 4-3 loss on spot-kicks marked yet another setback in what has been a difficult campaign, but manager Ruben Amorim remains focused on a bigger objective.
“The goal is to win the Premier League. So I know that we are losing games and losing trophies during this season, but the goal is to win the Premier League again,” Amorim stated after the match. “I don’t know how long it’s going to take. But that is our goal.
“If you think like that, we can suffer a little bit in these defeats — a lot sometimes — but we have a goal, so we continue, no matter what, we continue forward.”
Defending champions United bowed out in the fifth round after both Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee failed to convert their penalties.
Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, proved to be the difference-maker, pulling off decisive saves that secured his team’s passage to the quarterfinals, where they will face Crystal Palace.
United had initially fallen behind just before halftime when Calvin Bassey powered in a header.
However, Bruno Fernandes’ second-half equalizer kept their hopes alive, sending the game into extra time.
Despite late chances to snatch victory, Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi both testing Leno—United couldn’t capitalize, and the shootout ultimately sealed their fate.
With their FA Cup defense over, United’s only remaining chance for silverware this season lies in the Europa League.
Their last Premier League title came in the 2012-13 season, and despite Amorim’s ambitions, a return to the top seems distant. The team currently sits 14th in the league table, making even a top-half finish uncertain.
It has been a challenging start for Amorim, who took over in November. Cup competitions had offered a glimmer of hope, especially with major rivals like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea already eliminated.
However, United struggled to impose themselves in the first half, drawing frustration from sections of the home crowd.
Their best spell came after Fernandes’ equalizer in the 71st minute, but even then, Fulham remained composed.
Garnacho had a golden opportunity in stoppage time, while Obi was denied in extra time. Leno’s penalty shootout heroics ultimately ensured Fulham’s progression.
“I know they had chances but I think we were the best team on the pitch,” said Fulham boss Marco Silva. “Our team was on the ball, dominating the ball. We deserve to be in the next stage.”
