Middlesbrough knock Manchester United out of FA Cup on penalties

Ralf Rangnick claimed Manchester United were robbed by VAR after his side suffered a FA Cup exit because of Championship club Middlesbrough who won 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw on Friday. Manchester United crashed out in the fourth round after Anthony Elanga blazed his spot-kick over the bar in a penalty shootout at Old Trafford. Swedish youngster Elanga was the only player from either team to miss in the shoot-out, leaving the forward holding his head in disbelief as Middlesbrough celebrated their amazing win.

Jadon Sancho had put United ahead in the first half, but Matt Crooks snatched a controversial equaliser after the interval to make way for Middlesbrough’s memorable upset.

Crooks’ goal was allowed to stand in spite of Duncan Watmore controlling the ball with his hand prior to providing the assist.

“We conceded a goal which I don’t understand why it stood. He controlled it with his hand,” Rangnick said.

“In the moment when they scored, it was clear that VAR would not allow this goal to stand.”

Indeed, even Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder thought the goal would be ruled out, saying, “I thought straight away it was handball.

“I thought it would be chalked out and was delighted it wasn’t. The FA Cup is alive and kicking!”

Cristiano Ronaldo had missed a first-half spot-kick for United, who have now lost seven of their last eight penalty shoot-outs, including last season’s Europa League last against Villarreal.

United had 30 shots altogether but lacked in finishing off the game.

“I’m incredibly disappointed,” Rangnick said. “We should have won and killed off the game in the first half.

“Crossbar, post, missed penalty and numerous chances. It should have been 2-0 or 3-0.”