Arsenal maintained their grip on the Premier League title after Eddie Nketiah delivered a spectacular 90th-minute winner, securing them an electrifying victory over Manchester United at Emirates Stadium.
Manchester City’s recent victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers placed the Gunners in a precarious position. Yet, they responded with determination and excellence even after conceding a goal to earn an unfettered 5-point lead at the top of the table, along with one extra match.
Arsenal vs Manchester United Highlights
In the 17th minute, United’s star Marcus Rashford blasted a magnificent right-foot shot from 25 yards out to give them an edge.
Arsenal came back with a vengeance and equalized seven minutes later when Granit Xhaka’s cross delivered Nketiah the perfect opportunity to score, beating Aaron Wan-Bissaka to the ball at the far post.
Eight minutes after the break, Bukayo Saka’s slanted shot put Arsenal in the lead. Unfortunately, their lead didn’t last long as just six minutes later Lisandro Martinez scored his first goal for the club with a header which was aided by goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale failing to catch a corner kick.
As the game reached its climax, Arsenal seemed poised to take home a victory. Saka’s shot clanged off the post, and David de Gea put on an incredible performance with his save of Nketiah’s attempt.
The hard work paid off towards the end when Nketiah, who is magnificently standing in for Gabriel Jesus’ place during his injury, struck from point-blank range and ignited elated celebrations at Emirates Stadium.
No Stopping Arsenal
Although Arsenal would not have been devastated by a draw against Erik ten Hag’s more successful Manchester United, Nketiah’s last-minute goal sent the atmosphere through the roof!
Manchester City’s victory over Wolves had Arsenal feeling the pressure, and things only intensified when Marcus Rashford continued on his hot streak and scored for United.
Here’s the manager’s verdict on today’s narrow loss.#MUFC || #ARSMUN
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2023
Arsenal demonstrated the same intensity, precision and quality that have characterized their performances throughout their climb to the top of the table. They remained composed while forming opportunities until Nketiah’s decisive strike put an end to the match.
Saka and captain Martin Odegaard continued dominating the pitch, with Nketiah ensuring that Gabriel Jesus’ absence is not impeding Arsenal’s mission of securing a title victory. Chances and threats are being created in abundance as they continue to secure match wins despite this setback.
Manchester United suffer a loss
As the clock wound down, Manchester United believed that their job was nearly done as their defence – with Martinez especially astounding – remained unbreached.
It was no surprise that their faces dropped in despair when the VAR review for Nketiah’s goal revealed it as valid, leaving them without enough time to turn a point around.
💬 “You don’t have time to be sad or disappointed.”@LisandrMartinez is looking ahead to another important week for #MUFC.#MondayMotivation
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 23, 2023
Arsenal was the rightful victor in this match, and United may be regretting Casemiro’s suspension. His presence would’ve provided much-needed experience and control during those turbulent finishing stages. Additionally, Wout Weghorst is still adjusting to life back in the Premier League since his return – something that could have been a disadvantage for United as well.
Despite their eventual defeat, United’s performance was nothing to sniff at; they held strong in the first hour and fought back valiantly after Saka opened the scoring for Arsenal.
United was ultimately disheartened by the loss, with their gruelling schedule leaving them weary at the conclusion.
Arsenal undoubtedly deserved the win, yet it’s evident that United is moving toward a successful future with immense tenacity.
