With Manchester United pitted against Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final, many believed that the Red Devils would ease through the clash effortlessly. That’s exactly what happened in the first half as Erik ten Hag’s side rushed to a 2-0 lead by half-time. They added a third goal ten minutes after the second half restarted but things got worse from there.
Coventry City proceeded to produce arguably one of the best FA Cup semi-final performances in the final 30 minutes of the second half as they scored thrice to send the game to extra-time. That included a 90+4 minute penalty equaliser that sent the game into extra-time. That couldn’t separate the two sides but a penalty shootout did with United winning 4-2.
Erik Ten Hag clears the air amidst Antony controversy
However, while most praised the Sky Blues for the grit and determination they showed at Wembley, the post game focus was around Antony and his antics. The Brazilian was sent on during normal time as a substitute and played the remainder of the game for his side. But after the Red Devils won the shootout, Antony was spotted cupping his ears towards the Coventry players and fans.
The gesture hasn’t gone down well with fans, critics and neutrals alike with many criticising the Brazilian for his unsportsmanlike conduct. However, Erik ten Hag has defended the forward and instead asserted that Antony was provoked which is why he reacted. The United boss also added that they acknowledge Coventry City’s performance but believes his side needs to be better.
“Did you see the reaction of Harry Maguire? He [Antony] was provoked, that’s why this was a reaction of that, you haven’t seen the provocation, only the reaction. “But he should not do it. I have seen Harry Maguire straight after and others, we should acknowledge the performance of Coventry coming to that final and the comeback we are 70 mins totally dominating the game by far and 3-0 must have been the game is closed but the return from their side was very good,” Ten Hag told a press conference.
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