Manchester United Thrash Barnsley in Record EFL Cup Win Under Ten Hag

Manchester United delivered their most dominant performance under Erik ten Hag, demolishing League One side Barnsley 8-0 to secure a spot in the last 16 of the EFL Cup. The Old Trafford rout, featuring doubles from Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Christian Eriksen, along with a penalty from Antony, marked the club's biggest victory since their infamous 9-0 win over Southampton in 2021.

In what Ten Hag described as the "perfect night," United were in full control from the outset, showcasing clinical finishing and total dominance in every aspect of the game. "We did everything we planned," Ten Hag said after the match. "We won, scored great goals, entertained the fans, and worked on our game model. We are happy with the result."

Rashford continued his fine scoring form, netting twice, with his opener a blistering effort after collecting Garnacho’s crossfield pass and turning defender Marc Roberts inside out. His second goal came courtesy of another assist from Garnacho, who slid the ball perfectly into Rashford’s path for a first-time finish. Ten Hag praised Rashford's impact, saying, "When you have a player in your squad who is a guarantee for goals, it can make the difference."

Despite the scoreline, Barnsley supporters remained vocal throughout the match, and even United fans applauded manager Darrell Clarke's impressive touchline control of a loose ball. However, that moment of levity was one of the few bright spots for Barnsley in a night dominated by United's attacking brilliance.

Alejandro Garnacho was one of the standout performers, scoring two goals of his own, including a brilliant solo effort where he sprinted half the length of the pitch before calmly slotting past Barnsley's goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina. He could have had a hat-trick but missed an easier chance late in the game, much to his frustration.

Antony, whose form has been under scrutiny since his £82m move from Ajax in 2022, also enjoyed a night of redemption. The Brazilian winger confidently dispatched a penalty after being fouled by Slonina, following instructions from Ten Hag to "earn his place" in the squad.

The match also offered a glimpse of United’s new £50.5m signing, Manuel Ugarte, who made his first start in midfield. The Uruguayan appeared calm and composed, providing the type of presence Ten Hag has been seeking since his arrival from Ajax.

Christian Eriksen capped the night with two late goals, his first double since his Tottenham days in 2018. The Danish playmaker, who wasn’t expected to play a major role this season after transfer speculation, once again brought calmness and precision to United’s midfield, earning praise from fans and teammates alike.

Though United’s players enjoyed the victory, Ten Hag remained grounded, warning against complacency. "I wasn’t devastated after Liverpool, and I’m not celebrating now," he said. "We will see where we are in May, because that’s when we need to be good."

As United march into the next round, the emphatic victory not only restores confidence but also suggests that Ten Hag’s vision for the team is beginning to take shape. With Rashford in form, Garnacho thriving, and Eriksen pulling the strings, there’s growing belief that United can challenge on multiple fronts this season.