Manchester United’s 2025/26 FA Cup campaign ended in disappointment on Sunday as the 13-time winners were knocked out of the in the third round for just the second time in more than four decades.

At Old Trafford, Brighton & Hove Albion stunned United with a 2-1 victory, marking their first FA Cup win over the Red Devils.

Brajan Gruda opened the scoring early for Brighton before former United forward Danny Welbeck doubled the lead in the second half. Benjamin Sesko pulled one back late with a header, but United’s hopes were dented further when substitute Shea Lacey was sent off for a second yellow card.

The result leaves United without a win in either domestic cup this season and intensifies scrutiny on a beleaguered squad and managerial situation.

They will only play 40 matches in this campaign, compared to 60 last season, which is their lowest number since they played 39 in 1914-15.

Elsewhere on Sunday, Arsenal booked their place in the fourth round with a convincing 4-1 win over Portsmouth. Gabriel Martinelli starred with his first hat-trick for the club, overturning an early Portsmouth lead and sealing progression for the Premier League leaders.

Bafana Bafana international Luke le Roux started in the midfield for Portsmouth.

In other third-round matches, Leeds United defeated Derby County 3-1, with goals from Wilfried Gnonto, Ao Tanaka and James Justin helping the visitors advance.

Norwich City cruised to a 5-1 victory over Walsall, while West Ham United needed extra time to edge Queens Park Rangers 2-1, with Valentin Castellanos scoring the winner.

South African Tylon Smith was on the bench for QPR.

A notable upset also marked the day: Mansfield Town shocked Championship side Sheffield United 4-3 in a thrilling tie, as Louis Reed scored twice against his former club to book a place in the fourth round.