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Ole Gunnar Solskjær dismissed suggestions that Edinson Cavani could have been sent off after his United side organized a Manchester derby in the Carabao Cup semi-final.
The Uruguayan international was embroiled in an ugly incident with Yerry Mina in the second half when he appeared to grab the defender by the neck. Referee Andy Madley, however, did not have the benefit of VAR, so Cavani escaped further scrutiny before scoring the first pivotal goal at Goodison Park.
Anthony Martial added a final second and United’s reward for the 2-0 win was a semi-final at home against Manchester City. On the Cavani incident, Solskjær said: “It’s two South Americans who have had some battles before, not long ago, when they met in qualifying. This was a good soccer game, with fans, tackles, yellow cards, I enjoyed it.
The Manchester derby is a repeat of last year’s two-match semi-final, in which City prevailed on aggregate despite losing the second match. This year the tie will be unique at Old Trafford, as United were the first to leave the hat.
“We know that when we defend well we have players to win the game, the spirit in camp is good, winning gives energy and gives you a boost, so we are heading towards a positive Boxing Day,” added Solskjær.
“A semifinal is sometimes worse than the final because it is the worst possible moment to lose a match and leave the competition.”
Carlo Ancelotti reflected on a frustrating night, marked by an incident in which Richarlison was forced to leave the circuit with a head injury after being caught between Eric Bailly and Bruno Fernandes. Richarlison appeared to suffer a concussion and was taken away by medical personnel.
Fast guide
Carabao Cup semi-final draw
Manchester United v Manchester City
Tottenham v Brentford
Ties will be played the week beginning January 4
“I think it was an unfortunate challenge, dangerous yes, but I think all players are at risk,” said the Everton coach. “Our doctor was in full control of the situation and decided to take him out and I totally agreed with him. We will review it in the next few days to see what is going on. Fortunately he was fine after the game.
“We are disappointed that it was an important competition for us. We don’t regret it because the team performed ”.
The Spurs will host Brentford in the other semi-final. The Bees have already beaten four Premier League teams in Southampton, West Brom, Fulham and Newcastle.
