Manchester United Secure 7:0 Victory Against Barnsley to Reach EFL Cup Last-16.
Manchester United enjoyed a triumphant night as they secured their biggest victory under manager Erik ten Hag, cruising into the EFL Cup last-16 with a commanding win over League One side Barnsley. The 7-0 rout saw goals from Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Christian Eriksen, and a penalty from Antony, in what became a night to remember at Old Trafford.
Rashford, continuing his fine form, and Garnacho each bagged a brace, while veteran midfielder Eriksen added two late goals. Antony’s confident first-half penalty contributed to United’s biggest win since their 9-0 demolition of Southampton in February 2021, when stadiums were still closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking after the match, Erik ten Hag expressed his satisfaction with the performance. “For the team, this is the perfect night,” he said. “We did everything we planned – won to reach the next round, scored some great goals, entertained the fans, and worked on our game model, so we are happy.”
Barnsley, managed by Darrell Clarke, struggled to match United’s tempo and quality. Despite vocal support from their travelling fans, the League One side were completely outclassed. Their standout moment came not on the pitch, but when Clarke himself received applause from the home crowd for an impressive touchline control.
United’s victory was further boosted by the debut of £50.5 million signing Manuel Ugarte, who looked assured throughout the match. The Uruguayan midfielder’s composed display will provide Ten Hag with confidence that his squad is nearing completion, though the Dutchman remains level-headed. “I was not devastated after Liverpool, and I am not celebrating now,” Ten Hag added. “We will see where we are in May because that’s when we have to be good.”
Rashford’s Hot Streak Continues
Rashford’s confidence was evident in his two-goal performance, his first coming after a sublime crossfield pass from Garnacho, which he took with authority to beat Barnsley’s goalkeeper, Gabriel Slonina. Garnacho also set up Rashford’s second, delivering an excellent pass for a smooth first-time finish.
Rashford’s recent form has been the subject of much discussion, and Ten Hag’s analogy of him being like a “ketchup bottle” – once it starts flowing, the goals keep coming – seems to be bearing fruit. “When you have a player in your squad who is a guarantee for goals, it can make the difference,” Ten Hag said, praising the forward.
Garnacho and Eriksen Shine
Garnacho, who was instrumental in Rashford’s goals, could have left with a hat-trick of his own. His second goal was a brilliant solo effort, racing half the length of the pitch onto Eriksen’s magnificent through ball before calmly finishing. However, he squandered a golden opportunity for a third, skying an easier chance late on.
Christian Eriksen, who many had expected to leave United over the summer, put in a composed performance and was rewarded with two goals – his first double at club level since 2018, during his Tottenham days. “Christian brings calmness to the team, and he deserved his goals tonight,” Ten Hag remarked.
Antony, who has been working to re-establish his place in the squad, capped off the evening with a confident penalty after being brought down by Barnsley’s Slonina. It was a much-needed boost for the Brazilian, who has faced criticism following his £82 million move from Ajax in 2022.
Overall, it was a night of positives for United, with a clinical display of football that thrilled the home crowd and saw the Red Devils progress comfortably to the next round of the EFL Cup.
