Wed Oct 30 23:40:57 UTC 2024: ## Van Nistelrooy Starts with a Bang as Man United Thrash Leicester in Carabao Cup

**Manchester, England** – Ruud van Nistelrooy’s tenure as Manchester United’s interim manager began with a resounding victory, as the Red Devils demolished a weakened Leicester City side 5-2 in the Carabao Cup last 16.

The game was a complete turnaround from Sunday’s disappointing loss to West Ham, which saw Erik ten Hag sacked. United looked confident and clinical in front of goal, scoring some spectacular strikes.

Casemiro opened the scoring with a stunning long-range effort that found the top corner. Alejandro Garnacho doubled the lead shortly after, smashing in a cross from Diogo Dalot. Bruno Fernandes, who had been struggling for goals recently, finally found his scoring touch, netting twice, including a deflected free kick and a close-range finish. Casemiro added a second goal of his own in the second half, capitalizing on a rebound.

Despite Leicester pulling two goals back through Bilal El Khannouss and Conor Coady, the match was effectively decided by half-time.

“We scored some great goals, the first one was a beauty from Casemiro,” said Van Nistelrooy. “We had some luck as well, but it’s great to be on the scoresheet twice after a long time.”

Leicester manager Steve Cooper acknowledged the mistakes his side made. “We can’t make mistakes like we did tonight,” he said. “United are a counter-attacking team, and we gave them too many moments to hurt us.”

The victory sees Manchester United progress to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, continuing their impressive form in domestic cup competitions. The draw for the next round will take place next week.

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