Manchester United are out of the Capital One Cup after being defeated 3-1 by Championship side Middlesbrough on penalties, following a goalless draw after extra time.
The Reds came close to winning the game on several occasions, with Jesse Lingard hitting the woodwork in normal time, and Anthony Martial putting a header inches wide in the dying moments of extra time. However, credit must be given to Middlesbrough, who defended well for 120 minutes and even had a couple of chances of their own to win the game.
It was certainly a disappointing night at Old Trafford, but what did manager Louis van Gaal make of the result? Here’s what he had to say:
We are very disappointed. We could have finished so many of our chances so easily, and we didn’t do it, so it’s very disappointing. We have to solve this problem.
Against Manchester City, we had more chances than City and we have to finish one of those chances. We didn’t create so much against City as we did today but we have to finish. A lot of players were in finishing circumstances and didn’t do it. Not one player but more players so that’s a little bit frustrating. But it’s like that and we have to continue.
Last year, we were out of this cup already, in the first match, 4-0 [lost to Milton Keynes Dons]. Now we are in the final 16 and we had to win. But, okay, we were not lucky. I have to say you have to force the luck. Against Manchester City, we were also not lucky but I cannot repeat that every week that we’re not lucky. You have to force the luck.
Of course, there were some players that have played a very good game. I have to admit that I’m very proud of that because it’s not an easy game against Middlesbrough. So I’m pleased with some of the performances of my players but I am also disappointed with some of my players. That’s the life of the manager.
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