Arsenal lead at Old Trafford

Arsenal start the season with a goal at Old Trafford as the opener unfolds, framing a tense 90 minutes.

Arsenal take early lead at Old Trafford

Arsenal struck first when Riccardo Calafiori headed home from a corner in the 13th minute, giving the visitors a surprising lead at Old Trafford. The goal came after Rice delivered a precise cross that broke through United’s defences and caught Bayindir unprepared. United responded with pressure, but Arsenal’s defense held firm as the home side pushed to level the score.

The opening spell set a fast tempo, with United probing through Bruno Fernandes and Mount while Arsenal looked to hit on the break. The early goal changes the game’s balance, forcing United to chase the tempo instead of settling into a comfortable rhythm. Calafiori’s finish shows Arsenal’s set-piece threat and willingness to exploit space on the counter. If Arsenal can sustain discipline and improve ball retention, they could expose gaps in United’s build-up. Conversely, United will want to convert their early pressure into sustained pressure and test Raya more often.

Highlights

The season has just begun, and this opening acts as a listening post for what both clubs will learn in the weeks ahead.