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Heskey fires Man City past United to win Youth Cup

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MANCHESTER, England -- Manchester City claimed their fifth FA Youth Cup success with a 2-1 win over Manchester United on Thursday.

Reigan Heskey, son of former Liverpool and England striker Emile, scored the winner in the 87th minute at the Joie Stadium in front of the watching Pep Guardiola and his first-team staff.

After United goalkeeper Cameron Byrne-Hughes produced a stunning early save from Teddie Lamb, Floyd Samba gave City the lead in the first half with a brilliantly-executed free kick.

It was cancelled out shortly after when United defender Godwill Kukoni headed in an equaliser.

Reigan Heskey celebrates after scoring Manchester City's winner in the FA youth Cup final. Alex Livesey - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Although Ryan McAidoo's deflected shot hit the crossbar, the game looked to be heading for extra time until 18-year-old Heskey's late intervention.

As well as Guardiola, City first team players Phil Foden, Antoine Semenyo and Nathan Aké were also in the crowd to watch the youth team lift the prestigious under-18 trophy for the first time since 2024.

United brought a first-team delegation of their own to the final including captain Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount.

First-team head coach Michael Carrick, assistants Jonathan Woodgate, Steve Holland, Travis Binnion and Jonny Evans were also in the crowd along with CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox.

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