Manchester United cruise into FA Cup fifth round after 3-1 win over Reading

Ayomikun Elemikan Sports 29/01/2023

Manchester United recorded an emphatic 3-1 victory against Reading as the Red Devils qualified for the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Brazilian midfielders Casemiro and Fred were the goal getters for United on the night as substitute Amadou Mbengue’s strike was only a mere consolation for the visitors.

Former Real Madrid player Casemiro netted a brace while his compatriot Fred scored the other goal for Erik Ten Hag’s men.

Casemiro put up a great performance as Manchester United beat Reading 3-1 in the FA Cup fourth round. He had not scored twice in a game since January 2020, when playing for Real Madrid against Sevilla (Image: @UtdFaithfuls)

The hosts endured a frustrating first half but were able to overpower their resilient opponents when Casemiro broke the deadlock early in the second period. He had latched on to an incisive pass from another Brazilian Antony before burying the ball in the net.

Four minutes after the opener, United added another goal when Casemiro completed his brace on the night. This was yet another goal made in Brazil as he was assisted by Fred.

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34-year-old former Newcastle and West Ham striker Andy Carroll was shown a red card after two bookable offences.

Fred then added a third six minutes after the hour mark. Reading grabbed their only goal of the encounter when 21-year-old defender Mbengue scored.

Fred has formed a good partnership with fellow Brazilian Casemiro in the United midfield (Image: @StatmanDave)

Manchester united last won the prestigious cup in 2016 and will like to win the title soon with United still searching for a first major trophy since 2017.

Antony’s wastefulness with his four shots in the first half all moving wide of the post.

Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes’ efforts could not hit the target while Christian Eriksen, Wout Weghorst and Marcus Rashford all had chances to score.

During the first forty-five, VAR ruled Weghorst was in an offside position prior to the Dutchman’s headed pass to Rashford who found the back of the net.

Following the 3-1 win over Reading, Manchester United have also consolidated on their brilliant performances since the start of the year. They have now played eight matches in January and won six of those games.