LIVE: Manchester United vs Arsenal – Premier League Clash at Old Trafford

Braking News update August 17, 2025

🔥 LIVE: Manchester United vs Arsenal – Premier League Clash at Old Trafford

By Zamal Uddin

Manchester United and Arsenal, two of the Premier League’s fiercest rivals, kicked off their 2025/26 campaign with a high-intensity battle at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025. The match, starting at 4:30 PM local time (15:30 GMT), has already delivered drama, excitement, and a crucial opening goal from the visitors.

⚽ First-Half Summary

Score at Half-Time: Manchester United 0–1 Arsenal

The Gunners made an early breakthrough in the 13th minute. Riccardo Calafiori rose high from a corner delivered by Declan Rice and headed the ball into the net after United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failed to clear properly. The goal silenced Old Trafford and gave Arsenal a 1–0 lead.

Key Highlights from the First Half

13’ – Goal! Arsenal 1–0: Riccardo Calafiori scores with a header after Bayindir’s missed clearance.
16’ – United free-kick: Bruno Fernandes won a dangerous free kick just outside the box, but his strike hit the wall.
19’ – Arsenal chance: Declan Rice swung in a free kick from distance, but Bayindir rushed out to collect.
25’ – End-to-end action: Casemiro launched a counter with Mbeumo, who forced a corner, but Arsenal’s defense held firm.
30’ – United’s closest attempt: Patrick Dorgu unleashed a thunderous shot from distance, beating goalkeeper Raya but striking the post.
33’ – Cunha denied: United’s forward ran clear but Saliba’s pressure forced him into a weak shot easily saved by Raya.
35’ – Odegaard tests Bayindir: The Arsenal captain fired from distance, but Bayindir reacted quickly at his near post.
38’ – United’s missed opportunity: Cunha’s ball across the face of goal narrowly missed a teammate as Raya was caught out of position.
41’ – Arsenal corner: Bukayo Saka whipped in a delivery, but Ben White’s long-range strike went wide.

🔎 Tactical Analysis

Manchester United: Looked dangerous in attack with Cunha and Mbeumo constantly testing Arsenal’s defense, but poor finishing and missed opportunities kept them scoreless.
Arsenal: Organized and clinical, especially from set pieces. Calafiori’s header highlighted their aerial strength, while Saliba and Rice controlled key midfield duels.

🏟️ Atmosphere at Old Trafford

The iconic stadium is buzzing with intensity as fans from both sides create a heated atmosphere. United supporters were left frustrated after Dorgu’s strike hit the post, while Arsenal’s away section erupted when Calafiori opened the scoring.

📊 Half-Time Score

Manchester United 0–1 Arsenal

Goal: Riccardo Calafiori (13’)

The second half promises even more drama as United push for an equalizer while Arsenal aim to protect their lead and start the season with three points.