After experiencing a difficult week, David de Gea showcased a remarkable performance at Wembley, helping Erik ten Hag’s side win on penalties following a goalless draw.
The Spanish goalkeeper had his reputation on the line and his Manchester United future at stake following a disastrous performance against Sevilla.
However, he made a comeback and emerged as the hero for the Red Devils in a tense and closely contested FA Cup semi-final against Brighton.
In the nerve-shredding penalty shootout, Solly March was the only player to miss as he sent his spot-kick into the stands.
De Gea’s outstanding performance during the match allowed Manchester United to win the FA Cup semi-final against Brighton.
Although he did not save a penalty in the shootout, De Gea made several remarkable saves over 120 minutes to keep Brighton from scoring.
During the game, United also had their chances, with Bruno Fernandes creating many opportunities and Antony stretching the Brighton defense but struggling to make good decisions with his final pass or shot.
United’s players from Wembley According to Goal
Goalkeeper & Defence
David de Gea (9/10):
Back to what he does best after the trauma of Sevilla. Pushed away Mac Allister’s fizzing free-kick and Enciso’s scorching drive, caught March’s low effort and beat Mitoma to the ball with his foot.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (8/10):
Showed brilliant anticipation throughout, making perfectly-timed tackles and keeping his head when Brighton were swarming over United either side of half-time.
Victor Lindelof (7/10):
Quietly did a fine job, keeping the ball well and making important blocks and tackles. Booked in extra-time before netting the winning penalty.
Luke Shaw (7/10):
Very strong again as an emergency centre-back and much better than Maguire.
Diogo Dalot (6/10):
Pretty good in defence and very calm under pressure although nearly got Casemiro into trouble with a sloppy pass, saved by Shaw making a tactical foul. More cautious in attack.
Midfield
Christian Eriksen (6/10):
Made some good passes to start attacks but missed a big chance before half-time with a mis-kick. Ran out of breath in the second half and was the first to come off.
Casemiro (5/10):
Picked up a booking for clumsy foul on Mac Allister. Not very strong in tackles and nearly ran into trouble with his passing but made an important header off the line.
Bruno Fernandes (8/10):
United’s best outfield player. Had three strong attempts on goal and unlucky not to score. Worked hard defensively and after being taken off in extra-time was seen barking orders from the sidelines.
Attack
Antony (6/10):
Lively and gave Brighton’s defence lots to think about, but his decision-making was very poor.
Anthony Martial (5/10):
Looked really off the pace. Bunged an attempted chip on Sanchez and his passing was poor.
Marcus Rashford (6/10):
Struggled to get into the game but got better as it went on and a fine Sanchez save denied him the winner. Flashed a shot past the post in extra-time.
Subs & Manager
Fred (6/10):
Focused mostly on defensive duties when replacing Eriksen. Should have done better with a cross to Weghorst in extra-time.
Jadon Sancho (6/10):
Had a few good moments, such as his cross for Sabitzer.
Marcel Sabitzer (5/10):
Sent glancing header wide early in extra-time. Did little else and made awful cross with dangerous late free-kick.
Wout Weghorst (6/10):
Worked hard and his energy helped push Brighton back in extra-time. As usual, created no danger.
Tyrell Malacia (6/10):
Defended well at right-back in extra-time, winning important tackles.
Erik ten Hag (8/10):
Managed to pick the team up from the floor after the humiliation in Seville and got his selection and changes spot-on. Took a pragmatic approach by allowing Brighton the ball and it paid off