Brighton Complete Stunning Comeback to Knock Manchester United Out of Carabao Cup

Posted : 16 September 2026

Manchester United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup after Brighton & Hove Albion produced a remarkable comeback to win 3-2 at Old Trafford on Wednesday. United had raced into a two-goal lead but were unable to hold on as the visitors scored three unanswered goals.

The defeat compounded a difficult period for Michael Carrick's side, who had suffered a Manchester derby loss to City at the weekend. United also faced renewed attention surrounding highly rated academy prospect JJ Gabriel, who has indicated his intention to leave the club.

United appeared to have the perfect response when 19-year-old Shea Lacey marked his first senior start with an excellent finish after eight minutes. The youngster created space inside the Brighton area before finding the corner to put the hosts ahead.

Just two minutes later, Mason Mount doubled United's advantage. Marcus Rashford's effort was blocked by goalkeeper Jason Steele, but Mount reacted quickly to the rebound and drove the ball into the net.

Brighton gradually recovered from their poor start and pulled a goal back before half-time. Charalampos Kostoulas capitalised on a defensive lapse to beat United debutant goalkeeper Karl Darlow and reduce the deficit.

The visitors completed the turnaround in the second half. Brighton captain Pascal Groß was given too much space after United failed to deal with a clearance, allowing him to control the ball and fire past Darlow for the equaliser.

United's problems continued just minutes later. Kostoulas turned provider, cutting the ball back for substitute Maxim De Cuyper, who finished from close range to give Brighton a 3-2 lead in the 69th minute.

With United suddenly facing elimination, Carrick introduced captain Bruno Fernandes from the bench and later brought on Matheus Cunha in an attempt to rescue the tie. However, the changes failed to produce an equaliser.

Rashford came close late on but saw his effort denied by Steele, while Darlow was also required to make a save to prevent Brighton from extending their advantage.

The result means Brighton advance to the Carabao Cup fourth round, while United suffer another early domestic cup exit. It is their second successive elimination from the competition at the opening stage, adding to the pressure surrounding Carrick after a difficult start to the campaign.

For Brighton, the victory continues their impressive record at Old Trafford, while United will now turn their attention to their Premier League campaign and Sunday's meeting with Fulham.

Brighton Complete Stunning Comeback to Knock Manchester United Out of Carabao Cup

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