Brighton Stuns Manchester United in Historic EFL Cup Comeback

Manchester United suffered another blow this week, exiting the EFL Cup after Brighton mounted a thrilling comeback. Having taken an early two-goal lead at Old Trafford, Michael Carrick's side conceded before the break and then saw Pascal Gross and Maxim de Cuyper score quickfire second-half goals to secure a famous victory for Brighton.

This marks the first time United has lost at home after leading by two goals since November 1976.

The match began promisingly for United. 19-year-old Shaea Lacey opened the scoring with a powerful shot from inside the area. Mason Mount quickly doubled the lead with a rebound, marking his first goal of 2026. United dominated the first half until Brighton pulled one back in stoppage time through Charalampos Kostoulas.

In the second half, Brighton completed their turnaround. Pascal Gross equalized with a shot from a loose ball, and substitute Maxim de Cuyper scored the winner after receiving a pass from Kostoulas.

Manchester United, a six-time winner of the League Cup with their last triumph in 2023, is now out of the competition. Brighton continues its pursuit of a first major trophy.

Lacey was a standout performer for United. Meanwhile, fellow prospect JJ Gabriel was not involved. The 15-year-old, highly regarded, was reportedly expected to play in the EFL Cup but has asked to leave United following reported strained relations between his family and the club.

Brighton Mount Historic EFL Cup Comeback

Manchester United endured another difficult week, being eliminated from the EFL Cup following a stunning fightback by Brighton. Despite an early two-goal advantage at Old Trafford, Michael Carrick's team conceded twice in the second half, with Pascal Gross and Maxim de Cuyper scoring the crucial goals to seal a memorable win for Brighton.

This was the first time since November 1976 that United lost a home game after leading by two goals.

United's early dominance saw 19-year-old Shaea Lacey score the opener, finding the net with a strike from inside the box. Mason Mount extended the lead shortly after, netting his first goal of 2026 from a rebound. However, Brighton reduced the deficit in first-half stoppage time via Charalampos Kostoulas.

The second half saw Brighton complete their comeback. Pascal Gross equalized by firing in a loose ball, and substitute Maxim de Cuyper then secured the victory after being set up by Kostoulas.

Manchester United, who has won the League Cup six times, most recently in 2023, exits the competition, while Brighton remains in contention for their first major silverware.

Lacey was a bright spot for United. Reports indicate that promising 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, who was expected to feature, has requested a transfer from the club due to a breakdown in communication between his family and United.