Author: Barkha Roy
Manchester United secured an impressive 2-0 victory over Premier League rivals Arsenal in a pre-season friendly at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With an electric atmosphere, the match attracted a record crowd of 82,262 fans.
Manchester United started well, with newly appointed captain Bruno Fernandes opening the scoring in the 30th minute. Fernandes showed his skill with a powerful long-range shot that beat Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who could have done better to prevent the goal.
Shortly afterwards, Jadon Sancho, playing as a false nine as part of coach Erik ten Hag’s tactical changes, doubled United’s lead. He took advantage of a defensive error by Gabriel Magalhães, quickly seizing the opportunity and scoring an impressive goal from the top corner.
Although United enjoyed a successful match, there was a bitter moment for them when young striker Amad Diallo suffered an injury just minutes after being substituted at half-time.
Arsenal, despite creating several chances, failed to score. Gabriel’s header at the end of the game, aimed at goal, was deflected wide, adding to the players’ frustration.
After the final whistle, the two teams took part in a penalty shoot-out to practice in front of the enthusiastic crowd. Manchester United emerged victorious, winning the penalty shoot-out 5-3, after Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira shot his penalty over the bar.
Despite the win, the mispronunciation of Sancho’s name by the stadium commentator highlighted the striker’s difficulties since arriving at Manchester United. Sancho had a disappointing first season at Old Trafford and was inconsistent in crucial matches.
The 23-year-old, known for his talent and incredible pace, showed glimpses of his potential during the match, especially when he scored the second goal after running 40 meters before netting. Manchester United may consider selling Sancho, but the high transfer fee they paid to sign him from Borussia Dortmund would make such a decision challenging.
Arsenal, with a £200 million recruitment drive over the summer, introduced a number of new signings, including Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber. Despite being a solid team, they struggled to break through United’s defense and convert their chances.
Tom Heaton’s exceptional double save to stop Gabriel Martinelli and a defensive error that led to Sancho’s goal were some of the key moments that cost Arsenal. However, the team has shown promising signs as they prepare for their next match against Barcelona in Los Angeles.