Mariners Make History: Grimsby Beat Manchester United in Epic Cup Shootout

League Two side Grimsby Town pulled off one of the greatest shocks in EFL Cup history, knocking out Premier League giants Manchester United 12–11 on penalties after a dramatic 2–2 draw at Blundell Park.

For United boss Rúben Amorim, it was another miserable night, his 19th defeat in all competitions since taking charge. But the story belonged to the Mariners, who fearlessly went toe-to-toe with a side worth hundreds of millions and emerged with one of the proudest victories in their modern history.

Grimsby were outstanding from the first whistle. Charles Vernam capped off a flowing move midway through the first half to spark wild celebrations, before former United defender Tyrell Warren pounced on an André Onana error to double the lead inside 10 minutes.

Despite United throwing on Bruno Fernandes, Matthijs de Ligt and Bryan Mbeumo after the break, Grimsby continued to frustrate their illustrious visitors. Cameron Gardner had a third goal ruled out for offside, while Burns fired wide when clean through — moments that almost sealed the upset in normal time.

United finally hit back late on. Mbeumo coolly finished to halve the deficit, and Maguire's powerful header in the 89th minute forced penalties, breaking Grimsby hearts.

But the drama was far from over. In an epic shootout, Christy Pym denied Matheus Cunha to keep Grimsby in contention, before Bryan Mbeumo struck the crossbar with his second spot-kick, handing the Mariners a 12–11 triumph and sending Blundell Park into ecstasy.

Against a star-studded United side boasting the likes of Šeško, Cunha, Fernandes and Maguire, Artell's men showed grit, organisation and belief. For Grimsby, this was more than a cup upset, it was a historic night that will be talked about for generations.