Antony's celebration sparked controversy!

22/04/2024

In the second leg of the FA Cup semi-final, Manchester United advanced to the final after a brutal penalty shootout, eliminating Coventry City, the eighth-placed team in the English Championship, with an aggregate score of 7-5. 

This marks their 22nd appearance in the FA Cup final in their history, meeting Manchester City for the second consecutive year.

Manchester's derby in FA Cup Final

According to reports from Tyrone Marshall of the Manchester Evening News and Miguel Delaney of The Independent, Manchester United secured victory in the penalty shootout with Højlund's winning goal. 

However, substitute Brazilian winger Antony sparked controversy with his celebration.

Antony's celebration shown arrogant attitude

Antony ran directly towards the dismayed Coventry City players after scoring, making a provocative gesture of covering his ears with both hands, displaying a rather arrogant attitude.

In contrast, Manchester United captain Maguire did not excessively celebrate. He gracefully walked over to shake hands with the Coventry City players, offering them encouragement and praise. 

Antony

The contrasting actions of the two Manchester United players after advancing to the final elicited differing opinions from fans.

After the match, many Manchester United fans criticized Antony's behavior vehemently on social media. 

They deemed Antony's actions as vulgar: "Antony's behavior was truly out of line! The Coventry City players deserve applause too!" 

Coventry City players defeat with dignity

"How could Antony dare to taunt the opponents after coming on as a substitute?" "Such a lack of sportsmanship behavior is not befitting of playing for Manchester United. 

Even Red Devils fans believe that this kind of advancement does not warrant such wild celebrations."

In this match, Antony replaced Garnacho in the 66th minute. 

Antony sub in after United leading 3-0

At that time, Manchester United was already leading 3-0, but the coach's substitution nearly led to a turnaround for Manchester United. 

After Antony came on, Manchester United suffered a comprehensive collapse, conceding goals in succession. 

According to post-match statistics, Antony had 4 shots off target and committed 5 turnovers after coming on as a substitute. 

Antony received a very low rating

The Manchester Evening News rated him a very low 4 out of 10.

If it weren't for Onana's heroic performance in the penalty shootout, Antony, who cost Manchester United nearly €100 million in transfer fees, might have been scapegoated by the team!