Anthony Elanga misses crucial spot-kick as Man Utd are knocked out of FA Cup

Manchester United have been knocked out of the FA Cup after a controversy-filled fourth round tie against Middlesbrough.

United welcomed Middlesbrough to Old Trafford as the heavy favourites. They were by far the better side in the first half.

They led 1-0 at the break thanks to Jadon Sancho’s 25th minute goal. United could have been further in front but they spurned multiple chances, including Cristiano Ronaldo who missed from the penalty spot.

The Championship outfit restored parity midway through the second half. The goal came in hugely controversial circumstances.

Duncan Watmore accidentally handled the ball in the area before crossing for Matt Crooks to score.

VAR decided not to rule out the goal – much to the bemusement of many watching, including Rio Ferdinand, who slammed thetechnology.

But, by law, the right decision was made.

Bruno Fernandes then had a golden opportunity to give United the lead once again as he had the goal at his mercy.

But, with the goal gaping, Fernandes could only strike the post. It was a poor miss from Fernandes and it went on to prove costly.

The game went to extra-time and, with neither side able to find a winner, the tie was decided by penalties.

And it was Middlesbrough who emerged victorious on spot-kicks.

The first 15 penalties were all dispatched with aplomb. But United’s exit from the competition was confirmed when Anthony Elanga missing the all-important penalty.