Manchester United defeated 3-2 by Brighton in League Cup

Brighton came from two goals down to win 3-2 at Old Trafford, eliminating Manchester United from the League Cup. This defeat marks United's second consecutive home loss, following a disappointing performance in the third round. United initially led with goals from Shea Lacey and Mason Mount within the first 10 minutes on Wednesday. However, Charalampos Kostoulas initiated Brighton's comeback, with Pascal Gross equalizing and Maxim De Cuyper scoring the winner, leading to boos from the home crowd. This loss follows a controversial 1-0 defeat against Manchester City, where VAR officials admitted to a mistake in allowing City's winning goal. United, under Michael Carrick, has only one win from their first four Premier League matches. Carrick, who led United to third place last season as interim boss, faces pressure to improve results ahead of their match against Fulham on Sunday. A loss in that match could escalate the situation for the team. Carrick made eight changes for this match, highlighting concerns regarding squad depth. Lacey's performance provided a glimpse of hope, as he scored his first goal for United early in the match. Mount quickly doubled the lead, but defensive issues allowed Kostoulas to score before halftime. Brighton equalized in the 65th minute through Gross and took the lead in the 70th minute with De Cuyper's goal. Despite late substitutions, United could not find an equalizer. Brighton has now eliminated United from two cup competitions in nine months. In other matches, Aston Villa defeated Coventry 3-1, Everton won 1-0 against Wolves, and Fleetwood Town advanced by beating Sheffield United 1-0. Arsenal, Liverpool, Fulham, and Brentford also secured victories in their respective matches.