Arsenal delivered a commanding display to hand Manchester United their first defeat under new manager Ruben Amorim, securing a 2-0 victory in a match dominated by their set-piece prowess. The win at the Emirates Stadium not only showcased Arsenal's tactical sharpness but also brought them level on points with Chelsea in the Premier League standings, seven behind leaders Liverpool.
The breakthrough came in the 54th minute when Declan Rice delivered a pinpoint near-post corner that Jurrien Timber expertly headed into the net. It was a well-executed move that highlighted Arsenal's growing reputation as a set-piece powerhouse. The Gunners continued to exploit United’s fragility from corners, almost doubling their lead shortly after when Manuel Ugarte cleared Joshua Zirkzee’s flicked header off the line.
Arsenal eventually sealed the win in the 73rd minute through William Saliba. A Bukayo Saka corner found Thomas Partey, whose header took a fortunate deflection off Saliba’s back, wrong-footing Andre Onana and rolling into the net. Saliba’s goal underscored Arsenal’s league-leading record of 22 goals from corners since the start of last season, a testament to Mikel Arteta’s emphasis on set-piece efficiency.
United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities throughout the game. Diogo Dalot came closest in the first half, narrowly missing with a shot, while Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya denied Matthijs de Ligt with a spectacular save. Despite flashes of promise, United's attacking efforts were stifled by Arsenal’s organized defense and midfield dominance.
Late in the match, Arsenal substitutes Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz kept the pressure on United, both testing Onana with powerful attempts. The Gunners maintained control, ensuring the visitors never found a foothold in the game.
For Amorim, the defeat served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. His promising three-game unbeaten run at United came to an end as his side struggled to match Arsenal’s intensity and tactical discipline. United’s defensive vulnerabilities from set-pieces were glaring, and addressing them will be crucial for Amorim as he looks to build consistency.
Arsenal’s victory reinforced their title credentials and highlighted the effectiveness of Arteta’s strategies. With their set-piece proficiency and growing confidence, the Gunners have become one of the most dangerous sides in the league, capable of turning dead-ball situations into decisive moments.
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