Bruno Fernandes accused of 'embarrassing' dive to win penalty against Wigan

Bruno Fernandes netted a controversial penalty to double Manchester United's lead in their FA Cup third round clash against Wigan Athletic.

In the 72nd minute of Monday's game at the DW Stadium, Fernandes won a spot-kick for Erik ten Hag's side after Wigan number 16 Liam Shaw brushed the midfielder's toe with his foot.

The 29-year-old proceeded to go down theatrically and, to the surprise of many, referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

A host of Wigan players tried to protest the decision but no VAR meant the decision was final.

Moments later, Fernandes slotted into the bottom left corner as Lactis keeper Sam Tickle jumped in the opposite direction. You can watch the tackle, and Fernandes' goal, below.

Wins the pen ✅
Scores the pen ✅

Bruno Fernandes puts Man Utd in control from the spot 👏#WIGMUN | #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/cZxbRVCv6H

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) January 8, 2024

Here's how social media reacted to the incident.

One fan wrote: "Bruno Fernandes really 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 commented: "Bruno Fernandes isn’t even holding the right part of his foot."

A third said: "Bruno Fernandes needs to dive against Wigan Athletic to seal the game off, says it all doesn’t it," while a fourth added: "A blatant dive from Bruno Fernandes with minimal contact. No chance that tackle floors a fully grown man."

United went on to book their place in the FA Cup fourth round thanks to Diogo Dalot and Fernandes, who netted his first goal of 2024.

Erik ten Hag's side will face either Newport County or Eastleigh in the stage of the competition.

"The FA Cup is all about winning. You want to finish the job, that's exactly the words I used in the dressing room," Ten Hag said in his post-match interview with ITV Sport.

The Dutchman also commented on Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent takeover. "I think it's an inspiration," he added. "Everyone is optimistic. There's a lot of work to do, it's a journey. We will have some setbacks, but we must stay alive."