Man Utd-conquerors Grimsby score another shock
Grimsby Town continued their remarkable Carabao Cup run by securing a 1-0 victory over a youthful Sheffield Wednesday side at Hillsborough on Tuesday, advancing to the fourth round of the competition for the first time in 24 years.
The League Two Mariners, who caused one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by eliminating Manchester United on penalties in the second round, confirmed their giant-killing credentials with a well-deserved win. Jaze Kabia, a former Irish league player, scored the decisive header in the 49th minute. The win came against a Sheffield Wednesday squad that featured eight academy players in the starting lineup as part of ongoing protests by home fans against their club’s ownership.
Grimsby’s triumph was celebrated by approximately 6,000 travelling fans who outnumbered the home supporters due to a planned boycott. This victory illustrates the Mariners’ resilience and tactical discipline under pressure, capitalizing on Sheffield Wednesday’s inexperience and lineup changes. The club’s progression is a testament to their confidence and strong set-piece execution, highlighted by Kabia’s header.
This result strengthens Grimsby’s status as the tournament’s standout underdog, renewing memories of their previous historic upset over Manchester United, which was decided in a marathon penalty shootout and widely regarded as one of the greatest cup shocks. It also underscores the unpredictability of the Carabao Cup, where lower-league teams frequently test the depth and readiness of Premier League and Championship clubs.
For Sheffield Wednesday, the defeat raises questions about relying heavily on academy players in competitive knockout matches, while for Grimsby, the win provides crucial momentum and financial rewards as they advance deeper into the competition. This Cup journey could significantly bolster Grimsby’s profile and finances, reinforcing their strategic focus on developing talent and exploiting every opportunity in cup ties.
Overall, Grimsby Town’s continued success in the Carabao Cup demonstrates their capability to challenge higher-tier opponents through tactical discipline, set-piece strength, and unwavering team spirit, marking an important chapter in their club’s history. This run could inspire further ambition both on and off the pitch for the League Two side.