Bayindir’s Heroics Secure United’s FA Cup Win

Man United faced adversity but produced an unforgettable FA Cup classic against Arsenal. From Bruno Fernandes’ brilliance to Altay Bayindir’s heroics, this was a match for the ages.

January 12, 2025
11:51 pm

Manchester United showed incredible grit and determination to beat Arsenal in the FA Cup third round, winning in a nail-biting penalty shootout after playing over an hour with just ten men.

The game kicked off with United taking charge early, looking confident and pressing hard. The first big moment came in the 17th minute when Gabriel Martinelli scored, but relief washed over United as the linesman ruled it out.

Kobbie Mainoo had United’s first real shot on goal in the 24th minute, testing David Raya with a solid effort. Arsenal started to find their rhythm, but United’s defense, led by Harry Maguire, held strong. Bruno Fernandes almost made a difference but was denied a free kick after a controversial moment late in the first half.

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The breakthrough came just seven minutes into the second half. Alejandro Garnacho’s clever play set up Fernandes for a stunning strike, putting United ahead and sending their fans into a frenzy. But United’s momentum took a hit when Diogo Dalot got a second yellow card, leaving them with ten men. Arsenal took advantage and equalized through Gabriel, whose deflected shot left Altay Bayindir stranded.

But Bayindir wasn’t done yet. The Turkish goalkeeper was a wall, saving Martin Ødegaard’s penalty after a questionable foul on Kai Havertz. His incredible saves, including a fantastic stop from Declan Rice, kept Arsenal at bay.

In extra time, United defended bravely, with great efforts from Matthijs de Ligt and the tireless Garnacho. Substitute Joshua Zirkzee almost had a fairytale moment, forcing a great save from Raya after a slick counterattack.

When the final whistle blew, it was time for the penalty shootout. Bayindir shone again, stopping Havertz’s crucial shot. Fittingly, Zirkzee stepped up to calmly score the winning penalty, sealing a heroic victory for a United team that faced challenges with courage and teamwork.

Starting XI: Bayindir, De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez, Mazraoui, Dalot, Ugarte, Mainoo, Garnacho, Fernandes, Højlund
Subs: Zirkzee, Collyer, Amad, Malacia, Yoro