LONDON (AP) — In a thrilling FA Cup semifinal match at Wembley, Coventry City staged a remarkable comeback against Manchester United, nearly pulling off one of the most unexpected turnarounds in tournament history. Trailing 3-0 after Bruno Fernandes' goal in the 58th minute, Coventry fought back valiantly in the closing stages of the game.
Their spirited effort saw Ellis Simms and Callum O'Hare find the back of the net, reducing the deficit to just one goal. In a dramatic twist, Haji Wright converted a penalty in injury time to level the score at 3-3, sending the match into a tense penalty shootout.
Despite Coventry's heroic efforts, Manchester United managed to secure victory in the shootout, with Rasmus Hojlund scoring the decisive penalty kick. Coventry's hopes were dashed as O'Hare and Ben Sheaf missed their spot kicks, allowing United to advance to the final.
This heartbreaking defeat adds to Coventry's woes at Wembley, as they had previously lost on penalties to Luton in last year's Championship playoff final. The loss denied them a chance at promotion to the Premier League, making this latest setback all the more painful for the club.
Manchester United's narrow escape sets up an exciting final showdown against Manchester City, who emerged victorious against Chelsea in their semifinal clash. The stage is now set for another thrilling Manchester derby in the FA Cup final.
Despite the disappointment for Coventry, their remarkable comeback against a powerhouse like Manchester United will be remembered as a testament to their fighting spirit and resilience. The FA Cup once again delivered a spectacle filled with drama and excitement, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football at its finest.
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