Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 win against Manchester United in an intense Premier League duel. Both teams fought tooth and nail, but Arsenal triumphed. 1-0 — 13′ GOAL — RICCARDO CALAFIORI!!! This gave Arsenal an early lead in the game. Although Manchester United absolutely controlled the ball, they more often than not found it difficult to create any meaningful goal-scoring chances during the game.
The match played out at Old Trafford on Sunday, as both teams fought to add desperately needed points to their campaigns. Arsenal’s early goal completely dictated the flow of the match, putting Manchester United on the back foot and forcing them to chase their opponents.
Riccardo Calafiori’s goal, which came off a well-executed play, showcased Arsenal’s ability to capitalize on their chances. After collecting a pass inside the box, Calafiori quickly cut to his right. He then smashed the ball into the net beyond Manchester United’s Andre Onana. The early goal gave Arsenal an opportunity to drop into their defensive shape and it was tough for United to crack that Saudade shell.
Midway through the first half, it was Manchester United who had more of the attacking impetus and started to dominate. As the 33rd minute approached, Matheus Cunha had a booming effort to level the scoreline. Arsenal’s David Raya was equal to him and denied him with a brilliant stop. Just moments later, Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli proved he was equally proficient with his trick shots as he executed a scissor kick attempt to nowhere.
In response, Manchester United’s Mason Mount attempted a shot on the turn in the 43rd minute, but his effort was blocked by Arsenal’s resolute defense. Shortly before halftime, Calafiori picked up a yellow card for a heavy challenge on an opponent, a testament to the aggressive nature of the battle.
In the second half, Manchester United began to increase the pressure. They made a brilliant tactical switch in the 55th minute, substituting a more creative Amad Diallo on to invigorate their attack. Even with about 70 percent possession in that span, they had issues breaking through for quality opportunities. Arsenal’s defense remained disciplined and organized, successfully thwarting United’s advances.
In the 60th minute Arsenal made a huge statement with their 2nd of a double substitution. They introduced Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke to strengthen their midfield and impose themselves on the contest. As the match neared its conclusion, Manchester United’s Cunha continued to test Raya with a curving shot from distance in the 34th minute. Raya highlighted his world-class talents on display in the 78th minute. He had one more big stop in him, of course, and for a second time he denied Cunha.
Manchester United defended vigorously throughout the match, and almost equalised through Patrick Dorgu, whose booming effort hit the woodwork. They failed to complete even one shot on target in the second half. That inability to complete became expensive as the clock continued to run.