Manchester United were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town in a rain-soaked classic at Blundell Park.
Following an exciting 2-2 draw on Wednesday night, the Red Devils succumbed 12-11 on penalties.
The Mariners, cheered on by a sell-out crowd, appeared to be on their way to a famous upset when goals from Charles Vernam and former United academy player Tyrell Warren put them ahead before halftime.
United recovered late through Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire, but after a protracted shootout, Mbeumo smashed his second penalty against the crossbar to give Grimsby a night to remember.
Grimsby manager Dave Artell described the shocker as “one of the proudest nights in this club’s history.”
For United, it was a humbling night. Manager Ruben Amorim, who made significant changes to his lineup, stated that his team “paid the price” for a terrible first half.
United appeared spooked from the start, as Darragh Burns and Cameron Gardner tormented their defence.
Burns’ curling cross found Vernam clear at the far post, and he finished under Andre Onana.
Minutes later, Onana fumbled another Vernam delivery, and Warren joyously extended Grimsby’s advantage.
The weather matched the mood, with pouring rain and whirling winds limiting visitors to speculative efforts before the break.
Amorim’s half-time triple change, which included Bruno Fernandes, Matthijs de Ligt, and Mbeumo, shifted momentum.
Mbeumo ultimately scored in the 75th minute with a crisp strike, and Maguire’s header tied the score.
Onana appeared to have given United a lifeline by saving Clarke Oduor’s penalty in the shootout, but Pym denied Cunha shortly after.
After both teams scored in sudden death, the cycle reverted to the original takers.
Mbeumo, who scored in regulation time, struck the crossbar, causing an uproar in the home crowd.
As the Mariners’ fans spilt into the streets, singing, United were left to dwell on another humiliating cup defeat.
Grimsby advance to the third round, but Amorim’s Manchester United face even more questions.
