Manchester United advanced to the FA Cup fourth round after defeating Arsenal 5-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Emirates Stadium. The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes of intense action, with United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir emerging as the hero, saving a crucial penalty in regular time and another in the shootout.
How the Match Unfolded
The game was tightly contested, with both sides showcasing moments of brilliance. United took the lead early in the second half through a spectacular first-time finish from Bruno Fernandes, set up by Alejandro Garnacho’s clever play.
Arsenal quickly responded after Diogo Dalot’s dismissal for two yellow cards, leveling through Gabriel Magalhaes’ deflected strike. The Gunners had the chance to take the lead when Martin Odegaard stepped up for a penalty, but Bayindir’s save kept United in the game.
Despite Arsenal’s numerical advantage, United held firm through extra time, forcing the game to penalties. In the shootout, Bayindir denied Kai Havertz, while United converted all their spot-kicks to secure the victory.
Penalty Shootout Recap
- Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd): Scored ✅
- Martin Odegaard (Arsenal): Scored ✅
- Amad Diallo (Man Utd): Scored ✅
- Kai Havertz (Arsenal): Saved ❌
- Leny Yoro (Man Utd): Scored ✅
- Declan Rice (Arsenal): Scored ✅
- Lisandro Martinez (Man Utd): Scored ✅
- Thomas Partey (Arsenal): Scored ✅
- Joshua Zirkzee (Man Utd): Scored ✅
Player Ratings
Arsenal (4-3-3)
- GK: David Raya – 6.4: Made some decent saves but couldn’t outshine Bayindir.
- RB: Jurrien Timber – 7.1: Solid defensively and contributed to Arsenal’s build-up play.
- CB: William Saliba – 6.9: Reliable at the back but struggled against Fernandes.
- CB: Gabriel Magalhaes – 7.6: Scored the equalizer and was strong defensively.
- LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6.5: A decent showing but lacked impact going forward.
- DM: Jorginho – 7.4: Controlled the midfield well but faded late on.
- CM: Mikel Merino – 6.6: Struggled to impose himself in a physical battle.
- CM: Martin Odegaard (c) – 7.7: Influential but missed a crucial penalty.
- RW: Gabriel Jesus – 6.2: Subdued performance before being subbed off.
- CF: Kai Havertz – 7.8: Lively and involved but missed a key penalty.
- LW: Gabriel Martinelli – 6.6: Showed flashes but was largely quiet.
Substitutes
- Raheem Sterling (40′ for Jesus) – 6.9: Added pace but lacked end product.
- Declan Rice (73′ for Merino) – 6.6: Missed a big chance but converted his penalty.
- Leandro Trossard (91′ for Lewis-Skelly) – 6.2: Failed to make a significant impact.
- Thomas Partey (100′ for Timber) – 6.7: Scored in the shootout but didn’t stand out.
- Kieran Tierney (113′ for Jorginho) – N/A: Late cameo.
Man Utd (3-4-2-1)
- GK: Altay Bayindir – 9.0: Match-winner with crucial saves and shootout heroics.
- CB: Matthijs de Ligt – 6.7: Solid in defense, especially under pressure.
- CB: Harry Maguire – 7.2: Steady performance and converted his penalty.
- CB: Lisandro Martinez – 7.0: Reliable and scored a vital penalty.
- RWB: Noussair Mazraoui – 7.1: Worked tirelessly on the flank.
- CM: Manuel Ugarte – 6.1: Struggled to dominate in midfield.
- CM: Kobbie Mainoo – 6.9: Energetic but lacked composure in key moments.
- LWB: Diogo Dalot – 5.1: Dismissed for two quick bookings, leaving United vulnerable.
- AM: Alejandro Garnacho – 7.5: Assisted Fernandes’ goal and was a constant threat.
- AM: Bruno Fernandes – 7.8: Scored a brilliant opener and led by example.
- CF: Rasmus Hojlund – 6.1: Struggled to make an impact before being substituted.
Substitutes
- Amad Diallo (80′ for Garnacho) – 6.4: Scored his penalty but was quiet otherwise.
- Toby Collyer (80′ for Mainoo) – 6.3: Worked hard in midfield.
- Joshua Zirkzee (80′ for Hojlund) – 6.3: Sealed the win with the decisive penalty.
- Tyrell Malacia (91′ for Ugarte) – 6.5: Added stability to the defense.
- Leny Yoro (104′ for Maguire) – 6.2: Calmly converted his penalty.
Key Talking Points
Altay Bayindir’s Heroics
The Turkish goalkeeper was the standout performer, making a crucial penalty save from Odegaard and denying Havertz in the shootout. His commanding presence in goal was vital for United’s success.
Diogo Dalot’s Red Card
Dalot’s dismissal could have cost United dearly, but the team rallied and displayed resilience to grind out the win.
Arsenal’s Missed Opportunities
Despite dominating with a numerical advantage, Arsenal failed to capitalize on key moments, including Odegaard’s missed penalty.
United’s Grit
Ruben Amorim’s side showed character and composure, particularly in the penalty shootout, to overcome a tough opponent and advance.
What’s Next?
United advance to the FA Cup fourth round, while Arsenal will reflect on missed chances as they focus on their Premier League campaign.
