Fourth Division Grimsby Town Eliminates Manchester United from EFL Cup

In a stunning upset during the second round of the 2025 EFL Cup, fourth-division side Grimsby Town eliminated Premier League club Manchester United after a 2-2 draw followed by a marathon 12-11 penalty shootout victory. Grimsby Town took a surprising 2-0 lead in the first half with goals from Charles Vernam and Tyrell Warren, but Manchester United staged a late comeback with Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire scoring to level the match. The penalty shootout saw both teams convert 11 penalties before Mbeumo missed the decisive shot, sending Grimsby through to the third round in what is considered one of the biggest shocks in football history. This defeat marks Manchester United’s worst elimination in the EFL Cup in 65 years, as they had never before lost to a fourth-division team in the competition. Grimsby Town players and fans celebrated the historic victory, emphasizing the unexpected nature and significance of the win. Manchester United will now focus on their Premier League campaign, with their next match against Brighton, while Grimsby Town prepares for their League Two fixture against Bristol Rovers.