Calvin Bassey and Bernd Leno delivered standout performances as FA Cup holders Manchester United crashed out of the competition after a penalty shootout defeat to Fulham at Old Trafford.
With 1-1 scoreline after extra time, Bernd Leno saved spot-kicks from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee, sealing a 4-3 shootout victory for Fulham.
Following a cagey first half, Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of halftime when Bassey nodded home from a stoppage-time corner.
United responded after the break, with captain Bruno Fernandes producing a clever first-time finish to restore parity.
Both Andre Onana and Leno made crucial late saves to deny Emile Smith Rowe and Alejandro Garnacho, forcing extra time.
Despite chances at both ends, neither side could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes, leading to the decisive penalty shootout.
Leno emerged as Fulham’s hero, denying Lindelof and Zirkzee to send United crashing out in another setback to their disappointing season.
Fulham had opportunities to win in regulation time, with Smith Rowe twice denied by Onana. In extra time, 17-year-old United substitute Chido Obi nearly snatched victory, but Leno produced a stunning reflex save.
Leno’s heroics secured Fulham’s place in the quarter-finals, keeping alive their dream of reaching the FA Cup final for the first time since 1975.
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