Arsenal vs Manchester United FA Cup Report

Scorers: Gabriel 63’; Fernandes 52’

Penalties: 3-5

Red Card: Dalot 61’

 Manchester United overcame adversity to eliminate Arsenal from the FA Cup, advancing to the fourth round after a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory.

Despite playing with 10 men for over an hour following Diogo Dalot’s red card, United held their nerve as goalkeeper Altay Bayindir produced a heroic performance, including crucial penalty saves.

First Half: Fernandes Breaks the Deadlock

The first half was a tense and subdued affair, with neither side creating clear-cut chances early on. However, the tie came alive when Bruno Fernandes broke the deadlock with a stunning first-time finish.

Capitalising on a swift counter-attack, the United playmaker slotted the ball past David Raya to put the hosts ahead.

The lead was short-lived, though, as Dalot’s rash challenge earned him a second yellow card, reducing United to 10 men. Arsenal immediately capitalised, with Gabriel Magalhães firing in the equaliser from close range after a scramble in the box.

Second Half: Missed Chances and Bayindir’s Brilliance

The second half saw Arsenal dominate possession against the 10-man United side. They were handed a golden opportunity to take the lead when Kai Havertz won a controversial penalty.

However, Altay Bayindir saved Martin Ødegaard’s spot-kick, sparking chaotic scenes as tempers flared between the players, leading to several yellow cards.

Arsenal missed multiple chances to secure victory in normal time, with Havertz squandering a close-range opportunity and Bayindir making critical saves. Matthijs de Ligt added to United’s resilience with a spectacular clearance off the line to deny Arsenal yet again.

Extra Time: Late Drama

The game remained finely poised in extra time. Joshua Zirkzee came closest to finding a winner when his deflected shot forced David Raya into a brilliant save, pushing the ball onto the post. Both teams appeared exhausted, and the match was ultimately decided by penalties.

Penalty Shoot-Out: Bayindir the Hero

In the shoot-out, United held their composure while Arsenal faltered. Bayindir saved Kai Havertz’s penalty after earlier denying him in regulation time, ensuring United emerged 4-3 winners.

The Turkish goalkeeper’s heroics secured a hard-fought victory for the holders, who will now look ahead to the fourth-round draw.

What’s Next?

Manchester United advance to the fourth round, aiming to defend their FA Cup title. Arsenal, meanwhile, will reflect on missed opportunities as they return to their Premier League campaign.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
The FA Cup qualifying rounds fixtures and results – Competitions | The FA