Manchester United suffered a stunning 3-2 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, surrendering a two-goal lead to crash out of the Carabao Cup in the third round.

United appeared to be cruising after teenager Shea Lacey opened the scoring in the eighth minute before Mason Mount doubled the advantage just two minutes later.

However, Brighton gradually fought their way back into the contest and Charalampos Kostoulas reduced the deficit in first-half stoppage time.

The visitors completed the comeback after the break, with Pascal Gross restoring parity in the 65th minute before Maxim De Cuyper struck four minutes later to put Brighton ahead.

United introduced Bruno Fernandes in an attempt to rescue the tie, but Brighton held firm to secure a memorable victory at Old Trafford. Marcus Rashford also missed a late opportunity to level the game.

The defeat marks the first time in 50 years that Manchester United have lost at Old Trafford after taking a two-goal lead. The previous occasion came in September 1976, when Tottenham overturned a 2-0 deficit to win at the stadium.

The result also means United have suffered an early exit from the Carabao Cup for the second consecutive season, adding to a difficult start under manager Michael Carrick.

United had entered the game looking to respond to Sunday’s 1-0 Manchester derby defeat to Manchester City, but instead suffered another setback in front of their home supporters.

Carrick accepted responsibility for the collapse, while the Old Trafford crowd voiced their frustration at the final whistle.

Brighton’s victory sends them through to the next round, while United are left to focus on their Premier League campaign, with Fulham their next opponents on Sunday.