Bruno Fernandes delivered the go-ahead goal during a fiery second half in which he showed his customary edge. The midfielder angrily clashed face-to-face with Aston Villa players as he inspired his team-mates. He may not be popular among rivals, but Old Trafford sure does love him.
It was a needed shot of energy for the Red Devils, who made sloppy defensive mistakes in transition and didn't wake up until the latter stages of the game.
After losing to this same Aston Villa squad in the Premier League last weekend, history appeared set to repeat as the visitors took the lead for the second time in the 61st-minute through a Leon Bailey shot deflected in by Diogo Dalot.
Erik ten Hag called on the cavalry from his bench to help Fernandes kick the side into gear. Those substitutes did the trick. Alejandro Garnacho was alive once again and after Marcus Rashford levelled proceedings, it was the young Spaniard who assisted Fernandes' winning strike.