Erik ten Hag saluted Manchester United’s “personality and determination” after they came from behind to beat nine-man Fulham 3-1 in a fiery FA Cup quarter-final.
The Red Devils reached their record-breaking 31st semi-final, with Bruno Fernandes’ brace and a Marcel Sabitzer strike cancelling out Aleksandar Mitrovic’s opener at Old Trafford.
It was a controversial evening at M16, with the host thrilling at 18 minutes before time, after consulting VAR, and red-carding Fulham boss Marco Silva for his protests, Willian was sent off, for handling Jadon Sancho’s shot on the line, while Mitrovic followed for getting too physical with the official.
United fully capitalized on their numerical advantage to book a semi-final date with Brighton and Hove Albion at Wembley, where they landed the EFL Cup crown with victory over Newcastle United last month.
“We are happy with the win. We showed great character,” said a happy Ten Hag . “Every time this team comes out, they show the personality and the determination needed. Fulham are a good team, and you have to be good to overcome them”.
He mentioned further that United wanted to go back to Wembley, thus the determination and high spirits even when they were at disadvantage from the score board.
When asked about his success so far in his debut at the club, the Dutch said just a few words, “We have a great mentality. We have great players on the ball, but a great mentality and team spirit. I think you can see it on the pitch.”