Sabasports Match Preview
FA Cup: Arsenal vs Manchester United
Kickoff Time: 2024-01-12 23:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Phil Noble
Arsenal suffered a 0-2 defeat at home to Newcastle United in the first leg of the EFL Cup in midweek, which brought their unbeaten streak across all competitions to an end at 13 matches. In this match, Arsenal had absolute advantages in both possession and shots on goal, yet they failed to score. Even more embarrassingly, Arsenal had 11 corner kicks in this game but could not convert any into goals. This season, corner kicks have been Arsenal’s most relied-upon attacking method. Stats shows that since last season, Mikel Arteta’s team has scored 24 goals from corner kicks. However, despite the effectiveness of the corner kick strategy this season, Arsenal’s goals from open play have become increasingly scarce. Additionally, the absence of Bukayo Saka has further weakened the Gunners’ ability to score during open play. Addressing the team’s offensive issues has now become Arteta’s top priority.
In their last league match, Manchester United drew 2-2 away against Liverpool, finally halting a four-game losing streak. In this match, Manchester United displayed a long-missing sense of unity and fighting spirit. Whether it was quick counter-attacks in the offensive phase or collective pressing in defense, United’s players showed high tactical execution and a strong competitive attitude. The midfield trio of Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Manuel Ugarte not only effectively limited the opponent’s midfield progression but also initiated several threatening attacks. Additionally, Manchester United showcased excellent counter-attacking ability. Both Lisandro Martinez’s early goal and Amad Diallo’s equalizer at the end of the match demonstrated United’s speed and efficiency on the break.
Although Arsenal’s overall performance is significantly better than Manchester United’s, the Gunners’ over-reliance on corner kick tactics to score undoubtedly exposes a lack of variety in their attacking methods. In contrast, Manchester United’s morale has surged after drawing with Liverpool, and without the EFL Cup to contend with, the players also have an advantage in terms of physical fitness. With these contrasting situations, it would not be surprising to see Manchester United manage to hold on without conceding in regular time.
Arsenal’s Last 5 Games: LDWWW
25-01-08 Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle United
25-01-05 Brighton 1-1 Arsenal
25-01-02 Brentford 1-3 Arsenal
24-12-28 Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich Town
24-12-22 Crystal Palace 1-5 Arsenal
Manchester United’s Last 5 Games: DLLLL
25-01-06 Liverpool 2-2 Manchester United
24-12-31 Manchester United 0-2 Newcastle United
24-12-27 Wolves 2-0 Manchester United
24-12-22 Manchester United 0-3 Bournemouth
24-12-20 Tottenham Hotspur 4-3 Manchester United
Head To Head Record:
24-12-05 Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United
24-07-28 Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
24-05-12 Manchester United 0-1 Arsenal
23-09-03 Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United
23-07-23 Manchester United 2-0 Arsenal
Prediction: Manchester United to win or Draw