By Chris O'Brien
November 30 2016
Manchester United secured safe passage to the semi-finals of the Football League Cup, following a hard-fought, but ultimately comfortable, 4-1 victory over West Ham United on Wednesday evening.
The Red Devils quickly sought to put right a disappointing home draw with the struggling Irons on the weekend, by knocking them out of the competition with a crucial result.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic got the hosts off to an excellent start after only two minutes, as he turned home from a rejuvinated Henrikh Mkhitaryan. However, like Sunday, the Hammers struck back as Ashley Fletcher found the net.
Mkhitaryan was again the provider for United's second, as he assisted Anthony Martial to fire home, before the Frenchman scored again 14 minutes later following some stunning build-up play involving Ibrahimovic's skill, and Antonio Valencia's accurate crossing.
The relief around an excited Old Trafford was palpable, and with the result beyond doubt, Ibrahimovic ensured an emphatic element to the scoreline with United's fourth goal following some impressive build-up play from the hardworking Ander Herrera.
Jose Mourinho's side are now a two-legged semi-final away from Wembley, in a competition the club have won on four occasions - most recently in 2010. Fierce rivals Liverpool, Southampton and Hull City join United in the final four.
Full Time - Manchester United 2-1 West Ham United
Attendance - TBC
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