Manchester United Triumphs With Late Harry Maguire Header In FA Cup Match Against Leicester City

Harry Maguire's late header secured a 2-1 victory for Manchester United over Leicester City, propelling them into the FA Cup fifth round. Despite a sluggish start at Old Trafford, where they failed to register a shot on target in the first half, United managed to overturn their deficit. Bobby De Cordova-Reid had given Leicester the lead with a simple header after Andre Onana parried Wilfried Ndidi's shot into his path.

Ruben Amorim's team showed improvement after halftime. Substitute Alejandro Garnacho nearly equalised with a deflected shot that Caleb Okoli cleared off the line via the crossbar. However, United found their equaliser shortly after when Joshua Zirkzee scored from close range following Garnacho's impressive play off the bench.

Leicester appeared to be heading for extra time until Maguire's controversial header in injury time sealed their fate. He directed Bruno Fernandes' deep free-kick across goal and into the net. Replays indicated Maguire was offside, but without VAR until the next round, United advanced fortuitously.

Maguire's winner extended United's strong FA Cup home performance, marking their 17th win in 19 matches at Old Trafford within regulation time. This victory could bode well for United as they aim to replicate past successes, reminiscent of Anthony Martial’s stoppage-time winner against Everton in April 2016 under Louis Van Gaal.

The defeat was tough for Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s side, despite De Cordova-Reid scoring on his 20th FA Cup appearance. It was his third goal in this competition and his first for Leicester. The match highlighted both teams' strengths and weaknesses as they continue their respective campaigns.