Reigan Heskey Scores Late Winner as Man City Wins FA Youth Cup Over United

Reigan Heskey smashed home a late winner as Manchester City beat rivals Manchester United to win the FA Youth Cup for the fifth time.

The match repeated a two-legged final from 40 years ago, which City also won. The tie headed toward extra time until Heskey struck from the angle five minutes from the end to secure victory for Oliver Reiss's side.

Darren Fletcher's Manchester United hold a record 11 titles in the competition but last won in 2022, when Kobbie Mainoo featured in a victory over Nottingham Forest.

Controversy preceded the game over the choice of 7,000-capacity Joie Stadium. City cited ongoing construction at Etihad Stadium as the reason it was unavailable. United expressed disappointment at failing to host at Old Trafford and at the final outcome.

The contest stayed quiet until five minutes before halftime. Floyd Samba then curled a sensational 25-yard free kick into the top corner, leaving United goalkeeper Cameron Byrne-Hughes with no chance.

United leveled two minutes later. Center-back Godwill Kukonki charged forward, then headed home powerfully from Jim Thwaites's cross-field pass.

Heskey, son of former Liverpool and England striker Emile Heskey, delivered the decisive blow. City lifted the trophy before their home crowd.