Antony scored and assisted in MU’s 4-2 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Newport on January 29.

Coach Erik ten Hag fielded practically his strongest squad against Newport of the fourth tier, with the exception of Altay Bayindir at goalie. Even in a contest that isn’t supposed to be challenging, Manchester United still has fans scared.

The “Red Devils” soon dominated the game, with 75% ball possession. The Premier League representative had little trouble reaching the ball near the host team’s penalty area. After only 7 minutes, Newport’s goal had to be shaken by Bruno Fernandes’ crucial strike.

The Manchester United captain scored his eighth goal of the season, while Antony recorded his first assist in all competitions. This is also the former Ajax player’s first assist in an official game after nearly 9 months.

Continuing the excitement, Manchester United intensified the pressure on Newport and scored the second goal in the same manner as the first. Dalot handled the right flank and then passed to Kobbie Mainoo, who finished one touch in the middle to beat the goalkeeper.

In the next minutes, Manchester United players pressed Antony heavily. The 2000-born player had at least two decent opportunities, both of which he converted from close range.

The “Red Devils” squandered the opportunity before suddenly conceding a goal in the 36th minute. Bryn Morris fired a long shot that hit Lisandro Martinez’s head, changed course, and went into the goal. Bayindir flew as hard as he could but was still unable to save him.

Despite the opponent’s warning at the end of the first half, Manchester United’s defense continued to play subjectively. In the 48th minute, four “Red Devils” defenders stood in the restricted area, but Will Evans scored from close range to tie the game 2-2 for Newport.

Allowing a fourth-place opponent to equalize is unacceptable for a top club like Manchester United. On the field, coach Erik ten Hag rose up, approached the touchline, and conveyed his unhappiness.

In the next minutes, Manchester United allowed the hosts to control. Coach Ten Hag heaved a sigh of relief and returned to the technical area in the 68th minute, when Antony kicked the ball into Newport’s net, bringing the score to 3-2 following Luke Shaw’s rebounded shot. Rasmus Hojlund sealed a 4-2 victory in the fourth minute of extra time by capitalizing on a chaotic scenario.

Antony’s first goal since April 2023 and first assist since May 2023 helped Manchester United prevail against the fourth-placed opponent, advancing to the FA Cup round of 16. This is also the last arena where Erik ten Hag and his squad can compete for the championship this season.