Manchester United advanced to the Carabao Cup quarters with a commanding 5-2 victory over Leicester in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s first match as interim manager.
Casemiro set the tone with a spectacular 30-yard strike before adding his second, following up his own header that had struck both posts. Alejandro Garnacho increased the lead with his fifth goal of the season, while Bruno Fernandes made it four when his free-kick deflected in off James Justin.
Leicester responded through Bilal El Khannouss and Conor Coady, the latter capitalizing on a fortunate bounce off Diogo Dalot. Fernandes sealed United’s victory in the 59th minute, punishing Caleb Okoli’s misplaced backpass for his second goal of the night.
The match was played in front of Sir Alex Ferguson, making his first appearance at Old Trafford since the termination of his paid ambassadorial role, as the club hierarchy continues their pursuit of Sporting manager Ruben Amorim as Erik ten Hag’s permanent replacement.
Casemiro, whose signing has faced scrutiny amid discussions about United’s transfer spending, demonstrated his enduring quality throughout the match. The 32-year-old Brazilian, who joined from Real Madrid in 2022, nearly completed his hat-trick in injury time but sent his effort over the bar.
United will face Tottenham in the Carabao Cup quarters during the week of December 16.
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