Historic Upset: Grimsby Town Shock Manchester United 12-11 on Penalties in Carabao Cup
In one of the most astonishing results in recent memory, fourth-tier Grimsby Town eliminated Premier League giants Manchester United in a dramatic Carabao Cup second-round showdown at Blundell Park last night. After a 2-2 draw in regulation time, Grimsby triumphed 12-11 in a marathon penalty shootout to move into the third round.
A Tale of Two Halves
Grimsby drew first blood midway through the first half with a well-struck volley from Charles Vernam in the 22nd minute, beating goalkeeper André Onana at the near post. Just eight minutes later, former United youth player Tyrrell Warren seized the moment, tapping in after a defensive mishap, sending fans into delirium. (The Times)
But United, under pressure after a sluggish first half, launched a stirring comeback following halftime substitutions. Bryan Mbeumo pulled one back in the 75th minute with his debut goal, and Harry Maguire rose highest to head in a dramatic 89th-minute equaliser, forcing penalties. (TalkSport, Reuters)
Penalty Shootout Drama
What followed was an epic shootout. The tie extended well into sudden death, an exhausting display of nerve and precision from both sides. Grimsby’s Matheus Cunha missed his spot-kick into the arms of Christy Pym, and the shootout reached its climax when Mbeumo hit the crossbar, sealing the upset at 12-11. (TalkSport, Reuters, The Guardian)
Stunning Significance
This marks Manchester United’s first-ever defeat to a fourth-tier club in League Cup history, and their earliest entry in 11 seasons has ended in humiliation reminiscent of the 2014 exit to MK Dons. The result adds pressure on manager Ruben Amorim, whose start to the season has already attracted criticism. (TalkSport, The Times)
Grimsby’s Moment to Shine
A statement win for the Mariners, built on grit, precision, and opportunism. Their fearless approach and composed performance under pressure stunned a Red Devils squad that lacked cohesion. Manager David Artell’s men have now booked a place in the third round — writing their names into Carabao Cup folklore. (The Times, The Guardian)
Final Thoughts
The scale of this upset can’t be overstated Grimsby Town’s emphatic victory will resonate across English football. As debate rages over United’s vulnerability and Amorim’s future, this remarkable night at Blundell Park will be remembered as one of the greatest cup shocks of the era.
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