EFL Cup: Everton, Aston Villa advance as Manchester United crash out
Everton and Aston Villa booked their places in the fourth round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday night, while Manchester United were eliminated after a 3-2 defeat to Brighton.
Fleetwood Town also produced one of the round’s biggest surprises, defeating Sheffield United 1-0 at Highbury Stadium to continue their cup run.
Everton edge past Wolves
At the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton left it late to overcome recently relegated Wolves 1-0.
David Moyes’ side found Wolves goalkeeper Joao Virginia in inspired form. The former Everton goalkeeper repeatedly kept the hosts at bay, including a crucial intervention to deny Thierno Barry.
Everton eventually found the breakthrough in the 80th minute through substitute Charly Alcaraz. Alcaraz worked his way into the penalty area before calmly slotting the ball home to give Everton the lead. The goal was particularly significant for the midfielder, who had gone 13 months without scoring for the club.
The victory sent Everton through to the EFL Cup fourth round.
Tammy Abraham double sends Aston Villa through
Aston Villa also secured their place in the next round with a 3-1 victory away to Coventry City. Tammy Abraham was the standout performer, scoring twice as Villa overcame their Championship opponents.
The result provides Unai Emery's side with a cup boost as they look to build momentum after a difficult opening to the season.
Fleetwood produce Cup upset
League Two side Fleetwood Town claimed one of the night's most notable results by defeating Sheffield United 1-0. Playing at a wet and windy Highbury Stadium, Fleetwood made club history as they secured their place in the fourth round.
The decisive moment came when Sheffield United defender Rhys Norrington-Davies inadvertently headed Danny Andrew's cross into his own net.
Fleetwood held on to complete a memorable victory over their higher-ranked opponents.
Manchester United knocked out by Brighton
Manchester United's EFL Cup campaign ended with a 3-2 defeat against Brighton. The result adds another setback for United and sends Brighton into the fourth round at their expense.
Wednesday's EFL Cup Results
- Everton 1-0 Wolves
- Fleetwood Town 1-0 Sheffield United
- Coventry City 1-3 Aston Villa
- Manchester United 2-3 Brighton
Everton, Aston Villa, Fleetwood Town and Brighton now move into the fourth round of the competition.
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