Brighton fight back from two goals down to knock Manchester United out of League Cup

Brighton produced a stunning second-half comeback to beat Manchester United 3-2 on Wednesday and eliminate them from the third round of the English League Cup.

United appeared on course for a straightforward victory after scoring twice inside the opening 10 minutes. Shea Lacey put the hosts ahead in the eighth minute, cutting inside the area before finishing superbly with his left foot.

Mason Mount doubled United’s advantage just two minutes later, putting the home side in a commanding position and seemingly in control of their place in the next round.

Brighton, however, responded before half-time. Charalampos Kostoulas reduced the deficit in the first minute of added time at the end of the opening period, giving the visitors renewed hope after a difficult start.

The momentum continued to shift after the interval as Brighton increased the pressure on United’s defence. Pascal Gross completed the comeback in the 65th minute, restoring parity and leaving the tie level at 2-2.

Brighton then completed their remarkable turnaround just five minutes later. Maxime De Cuyper scored in the 70th minute to give his side a 3-2 lead, overturning a two-goal deficit in the space of one half.

Manchester United tried to force an equaliser during the closing stages, but Brighton held on to secure a place in the next round. United’s defeat ended their League Cup campaign in the third round, while Brighton advanced after one of the competition’s most notable comebacks.