From SI · · 4m
Man Utd vs. Brighton: Cup tie after derby blues
Manchester United face Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday, seeking redemption after a controversial derby loss.
In brief
Manchester United face Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday, seeking redemption after a controversial derby loss. Brighton arrive at Old Trafford in excellent form and with a strong recent record there, making them genuine threats despite their poor cup history. Originally reported by SI.
Derby defeat leaves Old Trafford sombre
Manchester United lost a controversial derby to Manchester City on Sunday, leaving the fanbase unhappy. They host Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday.
United's redemption chance comes quickly
A cup win would lift the mood at Old Trafford after the derby disappointment. Brighton visit for the third round of the Carabao Cup.
United bounced back from Grimsby humiliation
Last season, United were knocked out in the second round by League Two side Grimsby Town, losing 12-11 on penalties in Cleethorpes. They've since improved dramatically.
Carrick's rise brought Champions League return
Michael Carrick's arrival as interim boss led to United qualifying for the Champions League. Brighton qualified for the Conference League, so both teams enter the cup at this stage.
Brighton start season in rampant form
Brighton thrashed Coventry 5-0 at the weekend and sit fifth in the Premier League with seven points from four games. Manager Fabian Hürzeler will balance this cup tie with Arsenal's visit on Saturday.
Brighton have genuine chance to upset United
United are struggling early in the season and the derby loss has unsettled fans. Brighton sense an opening to pull off an upset on Wednesday.
Carrick feeling heat for first time
Since returning to United in January, Michael Carrick has enjoyed a smooth ride. The derby defeat and early season struggles are now creating pressure on the manager.
United's cup pedigree vs Brighton's struggles
United have won the League Cup six times, most recently in 2023 under Erik ten Hag. Brighton have never won it and haven't reached the fifth round since 1978-79.
Brighton's Old Trafford record is excellent
Brighton claimed their first Old Trafford win on their 15th attempt in 2022. They've won four of their last five visits, including three straight before United's 4-2 win last October.
Brighton's attack is firing on all cylinders
Brighton have scored 13 goals in four Premier League games, the most in the division. They also lead in shots on target and chances created.
Rotation expected from both managers
Both teams face demanding schedules this season. Expect widespread changes, with fringe players getting opportunities. Bruno Fernandes could be rested for United.
Prediction: Brighton to upset United
The prediction is Brighton 2, Manchester United 1. Brighton's form and Old Trafford record make them genuine threats despite United's cup experience.
Shaw's return could boost United defence
Luke Shaw is hoped to return after missing the derby. His absence forced Patrick Dorgu into defence, where he looks uncomfortable compared to his natural attacking position.
United to rotate heavily with injuries
Benjamin Šeško, Mason Mount, Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro and Andrey Santos are primed for starts. Matthijs de Ligt is nearing a comeback. Carlos Baleba, Amad Diallo and Manuel Ugarte remain out.
Brighton to shuffle deck with new signings
Fabian Hürzeler named an unchanged lineup at the weekend but will rotate for Old Trafford. Chema Andrés, Pascal Struijk and Promise David could make first starts.
Brighton missing key players for cup tie
Kaoru Mitoma, Yankuba Minteh, Jack Hinshelwood and Mats Wieffer are unavailable. Femi Azeez is also a doubt after missing the Coventry game through injury.
Match details and broadcast information
The match kicks off Wednesday, September 16 at 8 p.m. BST at Old Trafford. In the US, it airs on Paramount Plus with Farai Hallam as referee.
The short version
Brighton arrive at Old Trafford in excellent form and with a strong recent record there, making them genuine threats despite their poor cup history.
