The "magic of the cup" was replaced by a tactical chess match at Old Trafford today, Sunday, January 11, 2026, as Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion played out a gritty 0–0 draw in the FA Cup Third Round.
The result means both sides will head to the south coast for a replay at the Amex Stadium later this month. For United, it was a day defined by transition and missed opportunities as the club navigated its first home match of the post-Amorim era.
Match Summary: A Day of Tributes and Defensive Grit
The afternoon began under a cloud of transition following the dismissal of Rúben Amorim just six days ago. Interim manager Darren Fletcher, in his first home game since stepping up from the U18s, opted for a traditional 4-2-3-1 formation, welcoming back captain Bruno Fernandes to the starting XI.
United dominated the early proceedings, with Benjamin Šeško—the hero of midweek with two goals against Burnley—forcing a spectacular fingertip save from Jason Steele in the 24th minute. Despite the vocal support of the Stretford End, United’s attack struggled to find the clinical edge required to break down Fabian Hürzeler’s disciplined defensive block.
Brighton, fresh off a historic draw against Manchester City, grew into the game in the second half. Kaoru Mitoma came agonizingly close to a late winner, dancing past Diogo Dalot before firing a low drive that skipped just wide of the far post. Ultimately, neither side could find the breakthrough, leaving the tie wide open.
Match Details & Final Lineups
Competition: FA Cup (Third Round)
Final Score: Manchester United 0–0 Brighton
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Attendance: 73,410
Referee: Simon Hooper
Manchester United XI (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens
Defense: Dalot, Yoro, Martínez, Shaw
Midfield: Mainoo, Ugarte; Cunha, Fernandes (C), Dorgu
Attack: Šeško
Brighton & Hove Albion XI (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Steele
Defense: Veltman, Dunk (C), Van Hecke, De Cuyper
Midfield: Hinshelwood, Ayari, Groß
Attack: Mitoma, Welbeck, Rutter
Key Talking Points
The Interim Era: Darren Fletcher has stabilized the ship after a turbulent week. While United have now recorded four consecutive draws in all competitions, the defensive solidity shown today—particularly from young Leny Yoro—offered a glimpse of hope for the fans.
The "Bogey" Team: Brighton continues to be a thorn in United's side. Having held Manchester City to a draw in midweek, Hürzeler’s side once again proved they can go toe-to-toe with the league's heavyweights at their own grounds.
Slovenian Spark: Despite not scoring today, Benjamin Šeško was United’s most dangerous player. His physical presence and movement suggest he is quickly becoming the focal point of this "new-look" United attack.
What’s Next?
The two sides will face off in a Third-Round Replay at the Amex Stadium, likely to be scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
In the meantime, the Manchester United board remains in active discussions with Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Michael Carrick regarding a more permanent caretaker role until the end of the season.
