Aoba Tanaka 
Manchester United journey to the FA Cup final was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride as they narrowly escaped a dramatic collapse against Championship side Coventry. Despite holding a comfortable three-goal lead, United found themselves on the brink of defeat, only to clinch victory in a tense penalty shootout at Wembley.
The match witnessed an extraordinary turn of events, with United initially cruising to what seemed like a routine victory. Goals from Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, and Bruno Fernandes propelled them to a commanding 3-0 lead, leaving fans hopeful of a repeat of last season’s final against Manchester City.
However, in a stunning reversal of fortunes, Coventry mounted a remarkable comeback, capitalizing on United’s defensive lapses. Goals from Ellis Simms and Callum O’Hare, coupled with a late penalty from Haji Wright, saw Coventry force the game into extra time, sending shockwaves through the footballing world.
As the tension mounted, it was Coventry who appeared poised for an upset, momentarily igniting hopes of a historic victory akin to their 1987 triumph. Despite their valiant efforts, Coventry ultimately fell short in the penalty shootout, allowing United to scrape through to the final.
For Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who witnessed the nail-biting encounter alongside co-chairmen Joel and Avram Glazer, the match likely stirred a range of emotions. The gravity of the situation was not lost on United manager Erik ten Hag, who now faces probing questions about his team’s ability to maintain composure in high-pressure situations.
While United’s victory ensures a repeat of last season’s final showdown with Manchester City, the road ahead remains fraught with uncertainties. As fans reflect on the thrilling encounter at Wembley, Coventry’s gallant display serves as a poignant reminder of the magic of football, transcending divisions and capturing the hearts of supporters across the globe.
