Bruno Fernandes accused of ’embarrassing’ dive to win penalty against Wigan

In their FA Cup third-round match against Wigan Athletic, Manchester United’s lead was doubled by Bruno Fernandes’ contentious penalty kick.

Fernandes earned a spot-kick for Erik ten Hag’s team in the 72nd minute of Monday’s match at the DW Stadium after Wigan number 16 Liam Shaw brushed the midfielder’s toe with his foot.

To the surprise of many, referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot as the 29-year-old went down theatrically.

Many Wigan players attempted to challenge the ruling, but since there was no VAR, it was considered final.

A few moments later, keeper Sam Tickle of Lactis leaped in the opposite direction as Fernandes slotted into the bottom left corner. Watch Fernandes’ goal and the tackle below.

Wins the pen ✅
Scores the pen ✅

Bruno Fernandes puts Man Utd in control from the spot 👏#WIGMUN | #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/cZxbRVCv6H

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) January 8, 2024

This is how the incident was received on social media.

A supporter commented, “It’s really amazing how low Bruno Fernandes had to sink to win a penalty against a team two divisions below. Consider Wigan. embarrassing for United and Fernandes.”

“Bruno Fernandes isn’t even holding the right part of his foot,” said a second person.

“It says it all, doesn’t it, Bruno Fernandes needs to dive against Wigan Athletic to seal the game off,” remarked a third, and “A blatant dive from Bruno Fernandes with minimal contact,” said a fourth. There’s no way that tackle can take down a mature man.”

Fernandes, who scored his first goal of 2024, and Diogo Dalot helped United advance to the FA Cup fourth round.

In the competition, Erik ten Hag’s team will play Eastleigh or Newport County.

The FA Cup is primarily about victory. “I used the exact same words in the dressing room—you want to finish the job,” Ten Hag stated in an ITV Sport post-match interview.

The recent takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe was also discussed by the Dutchman. He continued, “I think it’s inspirational.” “Everyone has optimism. It’s a journey with a lot of work ahead of it. There will be obstacles in our way, but we have to persevere.”