Cunha’s Late Rocket Secures Dramatic Manchester United Win at Arsenal
Matheus Cunha’s stunning strike in stoppage time hands United a thrilling 3-2 victory at the Emirates, leaving Arsenal title hopes in jeopardy.
- Matheus Cunha’s stoppage-time strike secured a dramatic 3-2 win for Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, derailing Arsenal’s title hopes.
- Patrick Dorgu and Bryan Mbeumo had earlier given United the lead and equalized, showing the team’s growing confidence under interim manager Michael Carrick
- Arsenal’s defensive lapses and inability to maintain control in key moments left them vulnerable, despite Mikel Merino’s late goal from a Bukayo Saka corner
The Emirates Stadium was tense from the first whistle. Arsenal, chasing their first Premier League title since 2004, faced the pressure of knowing every point mattered. With Manchester City and Aston Villa closing in on their lead, Mikel Arteta’s side desperately needed a win after back-to-back 0-0 draws against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.
Early in the second half, Manchester United seized the advantage. Patrick Dorgu, thriving in a more advanced role, drilled a fierce effort past David Raya to make it 2-1. Arsenal’s frustration grew as United controlled the tempo, exploiting gaps in a nervy home side.
Arsenal momentarily leveled the score in the 84th minute from a Bukayo Saka corner. Substitute Mikel Merino bundled the ball home amidst a scramble in the United six-yard box, sparking hope among the Gunners faithful.
But the drama was far from over. Enter Matheus Cunha. With Arsenal pushing for a winner, Cunha found space at the back of midfield and unleashed a sensational curling strike from distance that left Raya rooted, securing a stunning 3-2 victory for United.
The result underscores the growing confidence in Michael Carrick’s side. United have now surged to fourth in the Premier League, riding the wave of the “new-manager bounce” and showing they can trouble even the top teams.
Earlier in the match, Arsenal’s defense faltered when Bryan Mbeumo capitalized on a poor pass from Martín Zubimendi to score United’s equalizer. United’s composure contrasted with Arsenal’s lack of direction, making the difference in a thrilling encounter.
Arsenal now face mounting pressure at the top, with their title challenge hanging in the balance, while United celebrate a memorable scalp that could define their resurgence under Carrick.
