Bruno Fernandes scored a contentious penalty to double Manchester United’s lead in their FA Cup third-round match against Wigan Athletic.

In the 72nd minute of Monday’s game at the DW Stadium, Erik ten Hag’s team won a penalty kick after Wigan number 16 Liam Shaw grazed the midfielder’s toe with his foot.

The 29-year-old went down theatrically, and many were surprised when referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

Many Wigan players attempted to dispute the verdict, but the lack of VAR meant that the result was final.

Moments later, Fernandes fired into the bottom left corner as Lactis goalkeeper Sam Tickle jumped in the other direction. You can see the tackle and Fernandes’ goal below.

One fan commented, “Bruno Fernandes had to stoop that low… diving to win a penalty against a team two divisions below.” Feel for Wigan. “Embarrassing for Fernandes and United.”

A second said, “Bruno Fernandes isn’t even holding the right part of his foot.”

A third commented, “Bruno Fernandes needs to dive against Wigan Athletic to seal the game, says it all,” while a fourth added, “A obvious dive from Bruno Fernandes with minor contact. That tackle has no chance of bringing down a fully grown guy.”

United went on to reach the FA Cup fourth round thanks to Diogo Dalot and Fernandes, who scored his first goal of 2024.

Erik ten Hag’s side will face either Newport County or Eastleigh at this stage of the campaign.

“The FA Cup is about winning. “You want to finish the job, that’s exactly what I said in the locker room,” Ten Hag stated in his post-match interview with ITV Sport.

The Dutchman also discussed Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent takeover. “I think it’s an inspiration,” he continued. “Everyone is optimistic. There is a lot of work to be done, and this is a journey. We’ll have some setbacks, but we have to stay alive.”