Manchester Utd win but three EPL clubs crash out of League Cup

Manchester United, the reigning EFL Cup champions, advanced to the fourth round following a convincing 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening.

Alejandro Garnacho and Casemiro found the net in the first half-hour, asserting dominance for the Red Devils. Anthony Martial added a third goal ten minutes into the second half, securing their place in the fourth-round draw scheduled for Wednesday night, under the management of Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag made significant changes to his starting lineup, including Sofyan Amrabat’s debut in the left-back position. Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Facundo Pellistri, and Hannibal Mejbri were also included in the starting eleven.

Roy Hodgson made seven changes to the Palace lineup, with Rob Holding and Dean Henderson making their debuts. Henderson, returning to Old Trafford, had his night cut short by a suspected muscle injury in the first 19 minutes, and Sam Johnstone, another former Red Devils player, replaced him.

Shortly after Johnstone entered the field, Garnacho scored for Manchester United, capitalizing on a well-executed play involving Diogo Dalot and Pellistri.

The Red Devils extended their lead seven minutes later when Casemiro powered in a header from Mount’s corner, leaving Johnstone with no chance.

Despite a defensive change by Palace at half-time, bringing on Marc Guehi for Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Manchester United continued to dominate. Victor Lindelof replaced Mount, allowing Amrabat to move into midfield.

Ten Hag’s side added a third goal as Martial clinically finished a close-range opportunity created by Casemiro’s perfectly-weighted cross.

Although Palace finally managed a shot on goal in the 67th minute through Nathaniel Clyne, it was far off target. Andre Onana made a crucial save against Jean-Philippe Mateta shortly after, and Jonny Evans had a close-range header that nearly found the net.

Onana denied Mateta again in the closing minutes, with Eberechi Eze unable to convert the rebound. Sam Johnstone also made crucial saves for Palace against Lindelof and Garnacho.

Manchester United and Crystal Palace will clash again at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.