Updated:2024-12-21 07:07Views:95
Son Heung-min scored direct from a corner as Tottenham beat Manchester United 4-3 in a thrilling EFL Cup quarter-final punctuated by goalkeeping errors. (More Football News)
Dominic Solanke also netted twice for Spurs as they reached the last four for the first time since 2021-22, with stand-in goalkeepers Fraser Forster and Altay Bayindir arguably guilty of two errors apiece.
Japan also began their campaign with a 5-5 draw against Korea but has since struggled to secure a win. They lost their second game 5-1 to India and followed that with a 2-1 defeat against Pakistan.
On the other hand, South Korea secured their first win of the tournament with a 3-2 victory over China. Goals from Hyeonhong, Junghoo, and Jihun (55') clinched the win for their side.
Spurs took the lead from their first real attack in the 15th minute, with Bayindir spilling Pedro Porro's drive to Solanke, who tucked home via the near post.
They then added two further goals early in the second half as United defended dismally. Dejan Kulusevski lashed home when Lisandro Martinez failed to clear James Maddison's cross, then Solanke beat the Argentine with ease to make it 3-0 in the 54th minute.
But United were given a lifeline in comical circumstances just after the hour. Moments after making a brilliant save from Joshua Zirkzee's header, Forster passed straight to Bruno Fernandes, allowing the United captain to tee up the Dutchman for a tap-in.
Things got worse for Forster with 19 minutes to play, as United substitute Amad Diallo slid in to divert the goalkeeper's casual pass into the net.
Spurs pulled two ahead again when Son's 88th-minute corner sailed over a clawing Bayindir and into the far corner, with United unable to force a leveller despite Jonny Evans reducing the arrears once more in the 94th minute.
Data Debrief: United's Spurs hoodoo continues
house of fun 100 free spinsTottenham have now beaten United twice this season, having already won 3-0 at Old Trafford in the Premier League in September.
Spurs are now unbeaten in five against the Red Devils in all competitions (three winshawkplay, two draws), winning consecutive games against them for the first time since a run of three victories in April 1990.