Manchester United gained an early advantage over Premier League rivals Arsenal, as Erik ten Hag's team confidently clinched a 2-0 victory in a pre-season match in New Jersey.
The newly appointed captain of Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, initiated the scoring in the 30th minute with a powerful long-range strike. Despite Aaron Ramsdale managing to touch the ball, he could have done better in preventing the goal.
United's lead was quickly doubled when Jadon Sancho took advantage of Gabriel Magalhaes' failed clearance and skillfully scored past Ramsdale. As a result, Ten Hag's team achieved their third consecutive pre-season victory. In the second half, Arsenal's best opportunity came from Kai Havertz, who received a precise pass from Martin Odegaard. However, the header from the former Chelsea forward sailed over the crossbar. Despite starting new signings Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber, the Gunners had a disappointing performance at MetLife Stadium and failed to make a breakthrough.
There was more disappointment for Mikel Arteta's team following the match, as they also suffered a defeat in a penalty shootout. United successfully converted all five of their spot kicks, while Fabio Vieira sent the ball soaring over the crossbar, concluding a challenging evening for the north London side. Twitter.
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United look sharp but work to do for Arsenal
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Man Utd made it three wins from three in pre-season with a 2-0 win over Arsenal
The game started energetically with Antony's misdirected shot missing the far post. Soon after, Gabriel Martinelli had two attempts on goal, but United goalkeeper Tom Heaton foiled his efforts after receiving a precise cross from Bukayo Saka.
Despite Arsenal's intention to control possession and assert dominance, they faced consequences from Ten Hag's team due to individual mistakes, resulting in United taking the lead in the first half.
Ramsdale managed to touch Fernandes' low left-footed shot, but was unable to prevent the ball from entering the goal, allowing United to take the lead.
Seven minutes later, Sancho capitalized on Gabriel's failed clearance and quickly outpaced the Brazilian defender. With a powerful and decisive strike, the English international blasted the ball into the top of the net, doubling the advantage for United.
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Jadon Sancho extends Man Utd's advantage over Arsenal. Despite making substitutions for all 10 outfield players at half-time, United maintained their superior performance in the second half, frustrating Arteta and his team with their physical style of play.
Lisandro Martinez's late tackle on Bukayo Saka in the closing stages of the first half provoked frustration among the Arsenal players. In addition, substitute Harry Maguire received a yellow card for a forceful collision with Odegaard from behind.
Arsenal came closest to leveling the score when Eddie Nketiah narrowly missed the target with a shot towards the far post. Meanwhile, Havertz lofted a header over the crossbar. However, United also had opportunities to widen their advantage.
Marcus Rashford missed a clean connection at the far post with Diogo Dalot's attempted shot, resulting in a wide shot from inside the six-yard box, despite having a clear goal opportunity. In addition, Facundo Pellistri also shot high over the crosbar after capitalizing on a defensive mistake from Arsenal's Kieran Tierney towards the end of the game. Nonetheless, this victory served as an another positive practice for Manchester United as they continue their preparations for the upcoming season.
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What's next?
Bukayo Saka endured some robust challenges from the Man Utd players during the match in New Jersey.Meanwhile, Arsenal will look to get back to winning ways when they face Barcelona at Sofi Stadium on Thursday morning (July 27) as they conclude their US tour; kick-off 3.30am.
Arsenal's pre-season fixtures and results
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Mikel Arteta looks to get his message across during Arsenal's defeat to Man Utd
Man Utd's pre-season fixtures and results
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The Premier League Summer Series featuring Chelsea, Newcastle, Brighton, Fulham, Brentford, and Aston Villa will be broadcast live on WeTV.
The nine-game friendly tournament will be held by five east coast states from July 23 to 30, as a preparation for the upcoming Premier League season. Each team will participate in three matches and will not play against the same opponent more than once.
The matches will be held at five venues along the east coast, namely Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Red Bull Arena in New Jersey, and FedExField in Landover, Maryland.