Manchester United Eliminates Arsenal on Penalties to Advance in the FA Cup
In a dramatic and epic encounter, Manchester United secured a nail-biting victory over Arsenal in the third round of the FA Cup. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the Red Devils triumphed in a thrilling penalty shootout, with Altay Bayindir emerging as the hero after saving a penalty during the match and another in the shootout.
Drama at the Emirates: Arsenal's Comeback Falls Short
The match started with Manchester United taking the lead through Bruno Fernandes, who finished expertly after a pinpoint assist from Alejandro Garnacho. However, the joy was short-lived for United as a chaotic sequence unfolded.
Diogo Dalot was shown a red card for a reckless challenge, leaving United to play with ten men. Arsenal capitalized quickly, equalizing through Gabriel Magalhães, whose shot deflected off Matthijs de Ligt and wrong-footed Bayindir.
Controversy struck when the referee awarded Arsenal a questionable penalty after an alleged foul by Harry Maguire on Kai Havertz. Martin Ødegaard stepped up, but Bayindir made a stunning save to deny him, keeping United’s hopes alive.
Arsenal dominated the second half and extra time, creating numerous chances. Declan Rice tested Bayindir with a powerful shot, while Havertz squandered a golden opportunity with an open goal in front of him. The Turkish goalkeeper stood firm, frustrating Arsenal’s relentless attacks.
In the penalty shootout, Havertz’s woes continued as he missed his spot-kick, while United's takers were flawless. Joshua Zirkzee scored the decisive penalty, silencing the Emirates and sending Rúben Amorim's side into the next round.
Other FA Cup Results
Alongside Manchester United, several teams booked their place in the next round:
- Crystal Palace defeated Stockport County 1-0.
- Ipswich Town cruised past Bristol Rovers with a 3-0 victory.
- Newcastle United staged a comeback to beat Bromley 3-1.