Manchester United’s controversial ‘offside’ goal, debutant Patrick Dorgu substituted at halftime, and honors paid to Lisandro Martinez.

**Manchester United Escape with Controversial Late Winner Against Leicester City**

In a dramatic FA Cup clash at Old Trafford, Manchester United found themselves on the right side of a contentious injury-time goal, as Harry Maguire’s header secured a 2-1 victory over Leicester City. The win not only propelled United into the next round but also spared them from the prospect of extra time amid a grueling winter schedule.

The match began in disheartening fashion for the home side, who once again fell behind in a lackluster first-half performance. The visitors took the lead through Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s close-range header, leaving the United faithful booing their team off the pitch at half-time. With six defeats in their last eight home matches looming large, it seemed as though another disappointing result was on the cards.

However, a revitalised United emerged after the break, thanks in part to the introduction of Alejandro Garnacho, who injected much-needed energy into the attack. The hosts equalised midway through the second half when substitute Joshua Zirkzee tapped in from close range, setting the stage for a tense finish.

As the match appeared destined for extra time, Maguire’s late header sent the home crowd into raptures. Yet, the goal was shrouded in controversy, as replays suggested the United captain was in an offside position. With VAR not in operation until the fifth round of the FA Cup, Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy expressed his frustration post-match, stating, “We are not defeated in Fergie time. We are defeated in offside time.”

Van Nistelrooy lamented the decision, insisting that Leicester deserved at least a draw. “This wasn’t necessary. VAR you have in a couple of centimetres, a couple of inches, this was half a metre, clear in line,” he added. The Leicester boss felt his side had performed admirably, pressing United effectively and deserving to go into extra time.

**Dorgu’s Debut Cut Short**

In a tactical twist, United’s new signing Patrick Dorgu made his debut but was substituted at half-time after a solid, if unspectacular, performance. The decision to replace him with Garnacho came as United trailed 1-0, and while Dorgu had shown promise, Amorim’s change proved pivotal in turning the tide.

Dorgu had touched the ball 47 times in the first half, winning all of his aerial duels and being one of the few United players to register a shot. However, the tactical switch paid dividends as Garnacho’s introduction allowed United to build momentum and ultimately secure the win.

**Support for Injured Martinez**

In a show of solidarity, the Manchester United squad donned personalised warm-up shirts ahead of the match in support of their injured teammate, Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine defender was stretchered off during the match after suffering a serious injury, and his teammates wore shirts emblazoned with “Mucha Fuerza,” meaning “a lot of strength,” alongside his nickname “Licha.”

Unfortunately, Martinez is expected to miss the remainder of the season, leaving a significant gap in United’s defensive line. As the team progresses in the FA Cup, they will undoubtedly be hoping for a swift recovery for their injured colleague.