GRIMSBY, England — In a historic upset, Manchester United was eliminated from the English League Cup on Wednesday after a grueling 12-11 penalty shootout loss to fourth-tier Grimsby Town. The defeat marks a significant low for the club, which remains winless to start its campaign.
In its first two Premier League matches, Manchester United settled for a 1-1 draw against Fulham and suffered a 1-0 loss to Arsenal, placing the team in 16th in the standings.
This is the first time in its history that Manchester United has lost to a fourth-tier team. The shocking defeat occurred in front of 8,647 spectators in Cleethorpes, 120 miles east of Manchester.
Despite being the heavy favorite, Manchester United fell behind 2-0 in the first 30 minutes, with goals from Charles Vernam and Tyrell Warren.
Late goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire leveled the score, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
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However, Mbeumo’s final attempt hit the crossbar, sealing the 12-11 victory for Grimsby. This was the first time the two teams had played each other since 1948.
Manchester United dominated possession with 70% and had nine shots on goal compared to Grimsby’s 30% possession and four shots on goal.
Nevertheless, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim told Vivid Voice News, “the best team won; the only team that was on the pitch.” He added, “We were completely lost.”
Last season, United finished 15th in the Premier League, its worst finish since being relegated in 1974.