Man Utd were the better team in a tightly contested Premier League opener versus Arsenal. But, ultimately came up short once again on home turf.
Arsenal win their PL opener against Man United
Arsenal grabbed an early lead through Riccardo Calafiori, who nodded in after Bayindir struggled to deal with a corner swung in by Declan Rice. The opener came just 13 minutes into the game and could have sunk Manchester United in seasons gone by.
Although, the Red Devils responded with real drive. Bryan Mbeumo went close after a Casemiro recovery set him free. Meanwhile, Patrick Dorgu hit the post following a slick ball from Bruno Fernandes. The backline of Saliba and Gabriel appeared uneasy under pressure, and yet United were unable to capitalize.
Matheus Cunha had a huge one on one chance, but took too long to finish. That attempt resulted in David Raya stopping Cunha with his legs. Just before the break, Raya was forced again by a Cunha strike that he tipped wide of the post.
Red Devils could not find the goal to tie it up
United forced the Gunners deeper into their own box. Fernandes had a dead ball danger forcing Raya to punch away. Cunha continued to be the dangerous instigator up front, twisting Ben White before finding Mbeumo. The winger saw his shot blocked, then watched a bicycle attempt drift narrowly wide.
Raya was the difference-maker once more, producing a stunning save to stop Mbeumo’s header as United piled on the pressure. Arsenal had few chances, with Rice firing well off target and Saka seeing a late effort blocked by de Ligt.
Despite waves of Utd attacks and the introduction of Sesko, the equaliser never arrived. Arsenal took the three points, but it was clear that Ruben Amorim’s side has plenty of reasons to be hopeful about future performances. The energy, creativity, and fight were clear for all to see. The Red Devils will believe that sharper finishing can turn strong displays into results when they face Fulham next.
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