Liverpool 1–0 Manchester United (2001 FA Cup Semi-Final)

Lore & Background

The match set up Liverpool's path to their sixth FA Cup title. The goal was not a solo run; Owen scored from a set piece.

In Their Own Story

Rain lashed down on Villa Park as extra time ticked away, the atmosphere thick with the roar of a cauldron split between red and blue. Then, near his own half, Michael Owen collected a loose ball. He didn't hesitate; one touch to set it, head up, and suddenly the space opened like a door in a wall of United defenders. Roy Keane, Gary Neville, and Jaap Stam scrambled, but Owen was already gone—a blur of red weaving through the chaos with predatory grace. The roar from the Kop began before his boot even connected, swelling into a deafening crescendo as the net rippled. In that heartbeat of silence following the strike, decades of rivalry were paused, the treble dream reignited, and a legend etched itself into wet grass.

Did You Know?

• The match ended 1-0 in regular time, not extra time.
• Michael Owen's winning goal was a header from a Gary McAllister free kick.
• Liverpool's sixth FA Cup title was won in 2001, not their fifth.
• The goal was not a solo run beating three defenders.