In a thrilling FA Youth Cup quarter-final, Manchester United’s youth team overcame Arsenal to secure a place in the semi-finals. The match was a tightly contested affair, ultimately decided in extra time after Arsenal went down to 10 men.
Manchester United took the lead in the 36th minute when Jack Fletcher, son of Darren Fletcher, scored a fantastic curling shot from the edge of the box, beating the Arsenal goalkeeper on his weaker side.
Arsenal responded just before halftime. Will Sweet delivered a long ball that found Louis Copley in a one-on-one situation, and Copley skillfully chipped the ball over the onrushing United goalkeeper to equalize.
Arsenal’s standout player, Max Dowman, a highly-rated teenager, made a significant impact in the second half. He showcased his talent by dribbling past a United defender in the penalty area, drawing a foul, and calmly converting the penalty to give Arsenal the lead.
However, Manchester United fought back. Jaydan Kamason equalized with a well-placed shot from outside the box, sending the game into extra time.
In the first half of extra time, Bendito Mantato scored the decisive goal for Manchester United. He capitalized on a cut-back pass from Samuel Lusale to put his team ahead once again.
Arsenal’s hopes were further dashed when their captain, Street, was sent off for a red card challenge on Kamason late in extra time.
The final score was Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United after extra time, marking a hard-fought victory for the Red Devils and their progression to the FA Youth Cup semi-finals.
- Full-time result: Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United (after ET).
