Man City beats Man United 2-1 in FA Cup final to complete second leg of treble bid

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Manchester City secured a crucial victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup final, winning 2-1 and moving closer to their treble aspirations. The game started with a bang as Ilkay Gundogan netted the fastest goal in FA Cup final history, finding the back of the net in just 13 seconds. However, United managed to equalize in the 33rd minute through Bruno Fernandes’ penalty kick. Gundogan came to the rescue once again in the 51st minute, scoring a scrappy winning goal with a left-footed volley from a Kevin De Bruyne free kick.

With the Premier League title already in their hands, Manchester City now only needs to conquer the Champions League to solidify their place in English soccer history. The victory in the FA Cup final marked their 13th major trophy under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola and the club’s 34th in his illustrious career. Despite facing financial rule violations, City has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

The match witnessed the clash between the two Manchester rivals for the first time in an FA Cup final, adding to the significance of the occasion. The likes of Prince William and David Beckham were present at England’s national stadium to witness the historic event. Manchester United, the only team to have achieved the league-FA Cup-European Cup treble in 1999, now awaits a favor from Inter Milan in the upcoming Champions League final on June 10.

As the final whistle blew, the City players celebrated in front of their jubilant fans, showcasing their joy and waving blue and white flags. Among the standout performers was Ilkay Gundogan, who might depart the club after the Champions League final due to his contract situation. He would leave behind a legacy as a true City great. Throughout the season, Gundogan has consistently delivered impressive performances, including the last-minute heroics that secured the Premier League title in the previous campaign.

Manchester United, under the leadership of Erik ten Hag in his first year, aimed to claim a domestic double after winning the League Cup earlier in the season. However, City dominated the game, with United only finding momentum in the final 10 minutes. Substitute Alejandro Garnacho caused problems for City down the left wing, but the Red Devils couldn’t find an equalizer, even coming close in stoppage time when Raphael Varane’s effort hit the crossbar.

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