Arsenal endured a frustrating day as Mikel Arteta's frontline faltered, with missed chances costing them a spot in the FA Cup fourth round. Despite playing against a 10-man Manchester United for nearly an hour, the Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw in regulation time before losing in a penalty shootout on Sunday.
Arsenal thought they had opened the scoring through Gabriel Martinelli, who appeared to beat the offside trap, but the linesman's flag dashed their hopes as his finish was ruled out. The first half offered little action, but the game came alive after the break.
Manchester United struck first when Harry Maguire’s cross-field pass wasn’t cleared by Gabriel Magalhães, allowing Alejandro Garnacho to break free and set up Bruno Fernandes for a clinical finish.
However, the momentum shifted just 10 minutes later. Diogo Dalot saw red for a reckless challenge on Mikel Merino, earning a second yellow card. Arsenal capitalized immediately, with Gabriel Magalhães redeeming himself by equalizing after Altay Bayindir’s poor punch gifted him the opportunity.
The theme of redemption continued, but not without drama. A controversial penalty was awarded when Maguire fouled Kai Havertz, yet Martin Ødegaard’s spot-kick was brilliantly saved by Bayindir.
In extra time, chances were scarce, though substitute Declan Rice saw a low shot saved, while Joshua Zirkzee forced a similar save at the other end.
The shootout proved decisive. Despite some strong strikes, Havertz missed a crucial penalty for Arsenal, while United converted all their efforts. Zirkzee sealed the win, sending Manchester United into the FA Cup fourth round and leaving Arsenal to rue their missed opportunities.
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