Recap of the 2023 Manchester derby FA Cup final

In two weeks time, both Manchester teams travel to Wembley to play their second consecutive FA Cup final. In terms of teams this final is an exact copy of the previous edition. That’s why we take a quick look back at what happened in the 2023 FA Cup final. In a thrilling and historic Manchester derby, Manchester City emerged victorious in the 2023 FA Cup final, securing a 2-1 win over their fierce local rivals, Manchester United. The match, held at Wembley Stadium, was an intense battle between two giants of English football.

Record-breaking start

The game started with an electrifying moment as Ilkay Gundogan scored just 13 seconds after kickoff, setting the record for the fastest goal ever in an FA Cup final. This early strike stunned both the spectators and the opposing team, setting the tone for a dramatic and high-stakes match.

Penalty for Man United

As the first half progressed, controversy struck when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened around the 30-minute mark. The referee was called to review a handball incident involving Manchester City's Jack Grealish. After careful consideration, a penalty was awarded to Manchester United. Bruno Fernandes stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, equalizing the score at 1-1.

Gundogan brace

The second half resumed with both teams determined to break the deadlock. In the 51st minute, Manchester City regained the lead when a deflected corner allowed Ilkay Gundogan to find the net once again. This goal reignited City's hopes and put them back in control of the match. As the game approached its final stages, Gundogan seemed poised to complete a hat-trick in the 71st minute. However, his celebrations were cut short as the goal was disallowed due to an offside ruling. Despite this setback, Manchester City continued to dominate, pressing forward to secure their victory. When the final whistle blew, they had successfully claimed the FA Cup with a 2-1 triumph.

Historical treble

The win against Manchester United not only solidified their dominance in English football but also set the stage for their ambitions on a larger scale. With the FA Cup and Premier League titles in hand, Manchester City turned their focus to the impending Champions League final against Inter Milan. A week after the FA Cup final, Man City completed their first ever treble. Till then Manchester United was the only English team to ever achieve a treble. This season the treble isn’t an option anymore. A double is still on the cards for the Cityzens. They need to beat West Ham United on Sunday to win the Premier League this weekend, if they manage to do so, the double is at stake during the FA Cup final. FA Cup final tickets demand will increase when Man City wins the Premier League. Their fans want to be there when to complete the double after winning a treble the year before. Man United fans want to be there to support their team trying to stop their neighbours from winning the double. It’s also the opportunity for a struggling Erik ten Hag to win a second trophy in his two years at the club.