Runner-up to Liverpool in the Premier League (six points behind and one more game on the clock), Arsenal experienced two disappointments in five days. The Gunners were beaten 2-0 by Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg last Tuesday (a month before the second leg at St James’ Park), and followed that up with an elimination in the FA Cup round of 32 in front of Manchester United after 120 minutes and a fatal penalty shootout (1-1, 3 tab to 5).
The shock of this “first round” with the elite clubs was particularly eventful. Dominated, the Red Devils opened the scoring at the start of the second half by Bruno Fernandes, on a counter led by Alejandro Garnacho (52nd). But the visitors were reduced to 10 with the exclusion of Diogo Dalot on the hour mark (61st) and Gabriel equalized following a left-footed shot deflected by Matthijs de Ligt (63rd). For the 5th goal of the Brazilian defender passed by Losc.
Arsenal fall on Bayindir
Arsenal then missed the opportunity to take the lead on numerous occasions. Martin Odegaard took charge of a penalty but came up against Altay Bayindir (72nd). André Onana’s Turkish understudy saved his team several times thereafter. During the penalty shootout, Bayindir precisely repelled the attempt of Kai Havertz, the Gunners’ second shooter. Leny Yoro then converted his shot on goal, before the penalty kick of the qualifier signed Joshua Zirkzee.
Arsenal must absolutely react during their next three matches, all scheduled at home: the North London Derby against Tottenham on Wednesday, the reception of Aston Villa for a shock of the top table, on Saturday, and that of Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League . The Gunners are 3rd in the standings and can get closer to a place in the top 8, which means direct qualification for the round of 16.
