Late drama sends Man United U18s into FA Youth Cup final after win over Crystal Palace

Manchester United U18s beat Crystal Palace 2-1 after extra-time in the U18 FA Youth Cup semi-final at Old Trafford on Friday evening.

They have reached the final for the first time since the 2021–22 season, when they lifted the trophy, and will face rivals Manchester City.

United started on the front foot with Yuel Helafu making a superb run before stinging the palms of goalkeeper Lucca Benetton.

Moments later, Nathaniel-Junior Brown whipped a cross into the area for Chido Obi whose effort was thwarted by Benetton.

Palace’s first genuine attempt came after the half-hour mark when Benji Casey rose highest to meet Dean Benamar’s delivery, but headed wide.

Obi missed an opportunity to put United ahead before the break, failing to hit the target after connecting with Godwill Kukonki’s cross.

The second half got off to a slow start with no real opportunity at either end until the 65th minute.

Substitute Samuel Lusale combined with Obi before squaring the ball across the face of the goal for Noah Ajayi, but the left-winger failed to make contact.

United eventually broke the deadlock in the 77th minute as Obi slipped Gabriel through, and the U18 Premier League top scorer finished clinically.

The Young Reds’ lead lasted for just two minutes. Goalkeeper Cameron Bryne-Hughes spilled a ball, allowing Raihaan Anderson to turn the ball home.

Both sides fluffed chances to score a late winner. Benamar first flashed wide after a mistake from the United defence, before Gabriel hit a shot straight at the Palace goalkeeper.

The match looked destined for penalties until Obi stepped up in the dying moments, rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home.

Article written by Henry Thornton .