Arsenal produced a scintillating performance to beat Manchester United 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium to leapfrog Tottenham Hotspur into the fourth spot in the Premier League table.
Mikel Arteta made just one change to the team that beat Chelsea in the midweek, with Cedric Soares replacing Rob Holding at the right-back position.
The Gunners secured a very early lead following some defensive blunders from United which led to Bukayo Saka’s rebounded shot falling into the path of Nuno Tavares, who made no mistake in scoring from close range.
The Red Devils grew into the game and mustered a couple of chances. However, the home team doubled their advantage courtesy of a brilliant penalty by Saka. After some nervy passing from Arsenal at the back, United did pull one goal back before halftime. Cristiano Ronaldo slotted home Nemanja Matic’s cross from the back post.
The visitors were awarded a penalty in the second half, but Bruno Fernande failed to score from the spot. They pushed on for the equalizer but those efforts were in vain. Granit Xhaka unleashed a venomous strike into the bottom corner to restore Arsenal’s two-goal lead and round off a splendid victory.
Here are four talking points from the game:
1. Starboy Bukayo Saka:
The youngster once again proved why he is one of Arteta’s most indispensable players in the squad. He played a huge role in the team’s first goal today. It was his curling shot that eventually fell into the path of Tavares.
The 20-year-old was excellent from 12 yards. He sent David de Gea the wrong way to double Arsenal’s lead in the 32nd minute. His brilliant display had to come to a premature end as he was withdrawn due to a suspected muscle injury.
2. Xhaka-Elneny midfield pivot:
Much like their performance at Stamford Bridge, these two have had another solid game. The Egyptian was always calm and composed in his passing even when he was under pressure from the United players. He did not set a foot wrong in the game.
Xhaka controlled the pace of the game from midfield. He was also faultless with his passing. He topped off his afternoon with a stunning long-range goal.
3. Reckless performance from Tavares:
Although the Portuguese international opened the scoring for the north Londoners, he was their worst player on the pitch. He was at sixes and sevens at the back, and also gave away a silly penalty. He was extremely lucky to play the entire duration of the game.
4. Arsenal boost their top-four chances:
The Gunners have asserted themselves back into the top-four race. The victories against Chelsea and Manchester United have rejuvenated their hopes of playing Champions League football next season. Tottenham are right behind them in the PL table, making the North London derby ever so important.
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