VS Arsenal (2): The Comeback Ignites

The second half resumes right on cue, and Arsenal fans flood the stadium with their mocking chant.

“Are you Tottenham in disguise~?”

Just five minutes into the second half, Manchester United scores, and the match atmosphere turns ominous.

Arsenal, who boasted the league's stingiest defense with only 3 goals conceded in their last six league games.

Now, in a single match, they've shipped as many—or possibly more.

They've grown accustomed to victories sealed by overwhelming defense over their seven-game win streak, but unaccustomed to being chased down.

That blind spot becomes Manchester United's breakthrough.

Kai Rooney's goal makes it 3-2.

Not just clawing one back—they've seized complete control of the momentum.

We can't let this slip.

One goal isn't enough...

Even tying it at 3-3 wouldn't cut it—we can't settle for that.

Beyond snatching three points to reclaim the top spot today, there's a personal goal just as crucial.

Dedicating a goal to Victoria with a celebration.

He scored in the first half, but at 3-1 down, no chance for theatrics.

And even a 3-3 equalizer? Same issue.

I don't want to look like I'm content with a draw against Arsenal.

“Let's go!!!”

I'll reverse it, then head to Victoria with pride.

For that, we just need goals.

With clear targets, my optimal decisions and movement are set.

Just execute.

⚽ 74' Ban Yeager

Arteta throws on Arsenal's future stars, Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri, desperate to reclaim the momentum.

The game restarts from Arsenal's kickoff, with about 15 minutes left.

Neither side wants a draw.

That would thrill current second-place Liverpool most.

For top-table rivals, a draw isn't a point gained—it's two lost.

With both teams trading blows, the stadium ignites.

Whichever scores first likely seals the win.

Manchester United dominates the second-half surge; Arsenal counters with young talent and home roar.

CLANG!!!

David Raya fingertips Kai Rooney's shot away—United's first corner of the match.

From Arsenal's view, facing Manchester United feels like ages ago.

Last season's FA Cup saw some EPL clashes, but not Arsenal.

Now, their first corner conceded all game—and zero read on United's corner success rate or tactics.

Fans might think that, but Arsenal's players and staff know United's corners cold.

“Just mark the two center-backs!!!”

United lacks aerial striker threats.

But their center-backs header well: Mado Murcia and Ilya Zabarny on-pitch, Harry Maguire off but lethal too.

Block those two, minimal danger.

Ban Yeager's the wildcard maybe...

Mikel Arteta recalls Yeager's header vs City last game but shakes it off.

Why? Yeager's taking the corner kick.

Kick skill matters less than receivers' headers in corners.

TWEEEET!!!

Arsenal, unfazed, eyes on post-corner counters—maybe Gabriel Martinelli for space runs.

“Wha...?!”

WHAAAAAAAAAA!!!

“What the hell just...”

The stadium erupts at the corner.

For Arsenal, it's gone library-quiet.

“Damn... of all days for that goal...”

In corners, receivers trump kicker.

...

That's for standard plays.

No one expects—or plans for—the kicker aiming direct.

⚽ 88' Ban Yeager