Bruno Fernandes was Manchester United’s lifeline in FA Cup win over Coventry City | OneFootball

Bruno Fernandes proved why he is Manchester United’s key player after the team won 4-2 on penalties against Coventry City following a 3-3 draw in their FA Cup semi-final showdown.

Despite Coventry being a league below them, Man United gave up a comfortable three-goal lead against a team that clearly showed more motivation and passion on the day.

While the majority of Erik ten Hag’s team exhibited a lack of direction, it was up to captain Fernandes to keep him team in the match and guide them through to the penalty shootout.

After United went up 1-0 courtesy of Scott McTominay, it was Fernandes who set up their second goal, sending a soaring corner kick to Harry Maguire who connected with a sublime header.

Following the half-time break, Fernandes came close to getting his name on the scoresheet when his long-range effort beat the keeper but failed to dip low enough to enter the net.

In the 58th minute, the Portuguese playmaker would get the goal he had sought, picking up a loose ball in the box and slotting it into the bottom corner with a left-footed effort.

Crucially, Fernandes scored an impressive penalty to put United in front in the penalty shootout, sending the keeper the wrong way by putting his shot into the bottom right corner.

Fernandes was clearly the heart of United’s midfield, making a massive nine key passes. 85 of his 100 passes met their mark, as did seven of his 11 long balls.

While only one of his five attempted crosses was accurate, the United skipper more than compensated with his fine defensive display. Fernandes made three successful tackles when tracking back, along with an interception.

Naturally, Fernandes was at his best on the attack. While three of his shots were off target, one was on target and another was blocked.

Most importantly, his attacking contributions included a goal and an assist. He also hit the woodwork on one occasion.

United should count themselves lucky to have a capable captain such as Fernandes to lead them to victory. Still, it will take more than the heroics of one man to push them to victory as they face up to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on 25 May.

(Stats via Sofascore)

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