In Manchester, England, Erik ten Hag has proven he can indeed inspire and guide his Manchester United squad to triumph over tough competition.
The team’s 4-3 victory in the FA Cup quarterfinal against Liverpool on Sunday provided solid answers regarding the manager’s knack for securing wins when it counts the most, reminiscent of the unassailable stronghold Old Trafford was during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in Amad Diallo’s decisive goal during stoppage time of extra-time, propelling Manchester United into an FA Cup semifinal clash with Coventry City next month. Amad, whose season had been marred by injuries, received a red card for a second bookable offense after celebrating his goal by taking off his shirt, in what was arguably the year’s most heart-wrenching send-off.
With Ten Hag’s future at United still under scrutiny, the irony that Coventry is managed by Mark Robins—the very person credited with saving Ferguson’s job in a pivotal FA Cup match against Nottingham Forest in 1990—is not lost on fans. Ten Hag is hopeful history does not repeat itself in this regard.
Jurgen Klopp’s impending departure from Liverpool at season’s end means this loss dashes any hopes of a quadruple celebration. This outcome was largely due to Ten Hag’s strategic substitutions as United pursued the game, eventually shifting to an aggressive playstyle by deploying Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, and Bruno Fernandes as a makeshift back three in the closing moments of extra-time.
Klopp expressed admiration for United’s bold approach. The effectiveness of Ten Hag’s tactical changes, including introducing Antony and Christian Eriksen, turned the tide, demonstrating a blend of desperation and genius that paid off.
Despite taking an early lead through Scott McTominay, United found themselves behind at halftime after Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah scored. The atmosphere at Old Trafford grew tense, as United’s record of losing after scoring first loomed large. However, Ten Hag’s team showcased remarkable unity and fighting spirit, turning the game around.
“The first 30 minutes was our season’s best,” Ten Hag remarked, acknowledging the team’s initial cohesion and subsequent adjustments made to counter Liverpool’s dominance. The game’s intensity only grew, with Antony’s late equalizer reigniting United’s hopes.
As the match seemed destined for penalties, Amad’s last-minute heroics, following a quick counterattack, sealed a memorable victory. The jubilation in the stands, with Ferguson among the ecstatic fans, underscored the significance of the win, not just as a triumph over a rival but as a potential turning point for Ten Hag and Manchester United.
This victory not only bolsters Ten Hag’s position but also sets the stage for the team’s next Premier League challenge against Brentford. With aspirations for Champions League qualification and silverware still alive, Ten Hag remains focused on the tasks ahead, aware that each game is crucial for United’s ambitions. This win, therefore, is not just about surviving but about envisioning a future filled with success and achievement for Manchester United under Ten Hag’s leadership.