Arsenal fought for a 1-0 victory over Manchester United, not only registering their fourth consecutive season opener win but also their third away win at the ground in the last 20 years.
In their first game after their disastrous last season, United were energetic and eager, but David Raya did not allow them to face him with any straightforward attempts.
Beyond doubt, Arsenal took advantage of a mistake on the part of United’s substitute goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who misjudged Declan Rice’s corner, so Riccardo Calafiori put the ball back into the net with his head from close range on his debut to make it 1-0 in the 21st minute.
Although the goal calmed down Mikel Arteta’s team, the hosts did not take it sitting down. Ryan forced a deflection wide, Dorgu powered the ball that hit the post, and Matheus Cunha fired in two shots, but David Raya, the Gunners’ goalkeeper, was able to hold on to their narrow margin before half time.
The second half, with United pressing and missing the goal they sought, was much the same as the first. Bryan Mbeumo got the nearest to scoring with a powerful header in the 74th minute, which Raya brilliantly saved.
Arsenal’s disciplined defense held out in the end showing that their away league run without defeat has thus been extended to the 15th game and a winning start has been made to their 100-year top flight season.
