Manchester United cruise into Carabao Cup quarterfinals
Manchester United advanced to the quarterfinals of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night. The Red Devils took care of Championship side Burnley, 2-0. Christian Eriksen and Marcus Rashford supplied the goals for Erik ten Hag’s side.
Ten Hag will be pleased with their performance following a disappointing spell in Spain. United lost both of their friendlies against LaLiga opponents earlier in the month. However, Wednesday’s match saw much of their World Cup contingent back with the team.
Manchester United uses eight World Cup players in Carabao Cup
Five players that featured in the World Cup started for ten Hag on the night. Three more players from the tournament also featured as substitutes. Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, Christian Eriksen, Tyrell Malacia, and Casemiro were all fit enough to make the starting XI. Although, short numbers at center back meant that Casemiro had to fill in at the position.
Burnley entered the game on a high. After all, the Clarets are currently top of the Championship and had only lost two total matches entering Old Trafford. Manager Vincent Kompany returned to Manchester after spending 11 seasons with City before departing in 2019.
Eriksen and Rashford provide the goals
Eriksen got the scoring starting for United with an easy finish inside of the six yard box. Defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a fantastic play to keep the ball on the pitch and squared it to an open Eriksen. The right back has not received much playing time under ten Hag, but was excellent against Burnley.
Rashford doubled United’s lead in the second half thanks to a long run and neat finish. The England international dribbled the ball 60 yards through Burnley’s defense and slotted home a shot into the far corner of the net.
The visitors did, however, have a few opportunities later in the match. Darko Churlinov and Ashley Barnes both had big chances through on goal but failed to hit the target. The defeat ends a four-game winning streak for Burnley.
Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion did not have the same luck as United on Wednesday. The Seagulls were knocked out of the Carabao Cup in a penalty shootout with League One side Charlton Athletic.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Sportimage