FA Cup Third Round Classics: Manchester United’s Nightmare at Old Trafford

In one of the shock headlines of the day, Manchester United were eliminated 2–1 by Brighton & Hove Albion, their first FA Cup exit at the third round in decades. Brighton struck early through Brajan Gruda and were doubled up by former United forward Danny Welbeck. United grabbed a late consolation via Benjamin Sesko, but teenager Shea Lacey was sent off, sealing United’s misfortune.

Turning point:
United enjoyed the lion’s share of possession but failed to convert the chances, while Brighton’s clinical edge and tactical discipline won the day. This defeat compounds a difficult season for the Red Devils and adds fresh scrutiny on the interim manager.

Arsenal Comeback with Martinelli Magic

At Fratton Park, Arsenal survived an early scare against Championship side Portsmouth before asserting their quality in a 4–1 victory. Portsmouth stunned the visitors inside the opening three minutes through Colby Bishop, but Arsenal quickly regrouped. An own goal levelled matters, and Gabriel Martinelli delivered a stunning hat-trick, showcasing his lethal finishing—including two goals from set pieces—to sink the hosts and keep Arsenal cruising into the fourth round.

Why it mattered:

• A statement from Arsenal’s squad depth and attacking firepower
• Portsmouth earned plaudits for a spirited showing before being overwhelmed

Leeds Edge Derby in Tight Encounter

Leeds United claimed a 3–1 victory over Derby County in a match where they came from behind to assert control. Goals from Gnonto, Tanaka and Justin turned the tie on its head, marking a strong cup performance and highlighting Leeds’ attacking depth.

Cup Underdogs Steal the Spotlight

Mansfield Town’s Thrilling Upset

One of the day’s most exciting results saw Mansfield Town (League Two) defeat Sheffield United 4–3 in a seven-goal classic. This result underlined why the FA Cup is football’s great leveler—Championship opposition couldn’t contain Mansfield’s fearless attacking approach.

Penalty Action & Gritty Progressions

Elsewhere in cup action:

• Hull City beat Blackburn on penalties after a stalemate in normal time.
• West Bromwich Albion saw off Swansea in a tense shootout.
• West Ham United advanced with a 2–1 extra time win over QPR.

A few ties were played with high drama, showcasing resilient defending and nerve-shredding finishes—classic FA Cup narratives.

Norwich Dominate, but Tragedy Overshadows Victory

Norwich City cruised to a 5–1 thrashing of Walsall, with striker Jovon Makama starring with a hat-trick in an impressive performance at Carrow Road. However, the joyful night was clouded by a fan’s tragic medical emergency during the match, prompting tributes and support from both clubs.

As teams prepare for the Fourth Round draw, the football calendar shifts momentum into an exciting phase of knockout football—with giant killers rising and established clubs fighting to safeguard glory.